Shouting into the Wind

Friday, September 23, 2005

A question of notes and rests

Day 5 of the everlasting illness. The cough is the worst at this point, but I do think the antibiotics are starting to have an effect.

So, as I've been mostly lying in bed reading other people's drafts, I've been pondering...what's the best way to give notes?

I've received good notes and bad notes. Good notes are the ones you like, bad notes are the ones you hate. I joke.

Actually, good notes are ones which are specific, helpful and relevant. Bad notes are generally the opposite. How do I make sure I'm giving good notes?

Sometimes I don't always know what the note is. I'll be circling a couple of pages, knowing there's a problem, but I just can't put my finger on it. The bad note would be to tell the writer, 'There's something wrong on page 33, but I just can't figure out what it is' Yeah, that's helpful. No, as a reader, I have a duty to figure it out to the best of my ability. Chances are the problem isn't on page 33, it's earlier in the story and I'm just recognizing the faulty stoplight on that particular page.

Plot and structure notes: I think the key here is to ask yourself if you understand all of the events in the story. Do they lead into each other as a progression or does there seem to be leaps of logic and time just to make the story work.

Character notes: If a character isn't behaving the way you expect, try to determine if it is because you lack a full understanding of the character or if the writer has just gone off the 'character map' that has been laid out for that person. If you establish that a character is afraid of his own shadow, unless there is a significant event or motive for him to go headfirst into a dark creepy cave, it would not be consistent with his character. Motive drives action for most characters. If you don't know the motive, then make it a result of circumstance. Anyone else have a thought on this?

So, when I'm listing notes, I tend to avoid dialogue notes unless there is something really wrong, like it doesn't 'sound' like the character. Also, if I know it is a first draft I'll avoid notes on typos, misspellings, grammar or punctuation knowing that person has more drafts ahead of them. I try to be as specific as possible. A note that the characters need more 'fleshing out' isn't really a great note to me. What's missing from the characters? What do I need? More background on them? Better definition of their motives? If their dialogue is flat or 'on the nose', I'll mention it could be richer, but I tend to think everyone does some of that 'on the nose' writing in first draft just to get the sucker written. It seems unfair for me to play 'spot the obvious'.

Anyone else have comments on how they give notes or feedback?

Thursday, September 22, 2005

Blech

I just got home from the doctor's office. Yes, I'm on day 4 of this -- thing. Even she was surprised I wasn't better, prescribed me antibiotics and told me not to go to work until Monday (I even got a note!)

Good news, getting all of my TV watching in, here are my very very short reviews of new shows:

Bones: Writing isn't great, interesting characters but the holographics are a killer in my book. Could be cancelled by mid-season.

Head Cases: Horrible. Canceled. NEXT.

Kitchen Confidential: Some funny moments, love the cast, numbers were worrisome. I expect Fox to stick with it though because of the positive reviews.

How I Met Your Mother: Could have been better, but considering my lowered expectations for sitcoms, I expect this to live, unless the numbers take a nosedive, which I doubt they will.

Surface: Very disappointing (not that I had high hopes for it to begin with). Numbers were surprisingly high, I expect them to drop next week. Cancelled by mid-season.

Threshold: I loved it, so it will probably be cancelled. I can always hope not, but it's on Friday on CBS. Who is watching CBS (or any TV) on Friday??

Supernatural: Actually some spooky moments. Some bad dialogue, but the 2 episdoes so far have been intriguing and I do think it will keep its Gilmore Girls audience. It lives, at least until mid-season, if not longer.

Just Legal: I can't believe I tried to watch this. If it isn't cancelled in 6 weeks, put me out of my misery.

Prison Break: Week four and I'm still tuning in. Always a good sign, especially since I want to see them break out of the prison. After that, I expect the show is going to have to really step it up to keep people watching. After all, that's WHY we're watching this show.

Shows I haven't watched yet:

Invasion: I DVR'd it last night, so I'll check it out today.

Everybody Hates Chris: I've had the pilot DVD sitting on my coffee table for two weeks, but I haven't gotten around to watching it. The reviews are good, so I doubt it will matter what I think...the show has legs before even airing tonight.

My Name is Earl: This was in the worst time slot for me, as I was watching House and recording Supernatural. I'll have to check it out next week...somehow. Clearly the ratings for the premiere were good, so NBC has some hope.

The Apprentice/ Martha Stewart: I totally forgot this was on last night. I was too caught up in my desire to see Lost to pay it any mind. I'll be interested to see how the numbers are next week against normal ABC programming. If it improves, it lives. If not, Martha may not 'fit in' at NBC for more than one season.

Wednesday, September 21, 2005

Cursed!

Yes, I am up at an insane hour. I think I'm getting better, but I still have a slight fever (in case you are my mother and want to know) and I still have a nagging cough. Not sure if I should go to work in 3 hours, but I probably should.

That said, the reason I'm cursed is...well, did ya happen to watch House? That opening of Act I with House battling a cold, yeah, that's my teaser opening in my spec! I now have to do some hefty rewriting to exorcise all of the scenes/lines pertaining to House having a cold. The trouble is, I'm not sure what I'm going to put in its place!

So, where yesterday at 8:59 PM I was feeling pretty alright with the world (except for this blasted whatever-I-have), by 9:10 PM I was watching my hard work become irrelevant.

I got work to do, that's for sure.

Tuesday, September 20, 2005

Sick

Sore throat, congested...I feel yucky.

I'll probably take the opportunity (while feeling miserable and lying in bed) to get caught up on my script reading -- I have a lot of things people have asked me to read which I need to get notes back to them on. I'll also get caught up on my TV watching. I'd rather watch all of the premieres I have on the DVR than watch 'Oprah'. So, that's what I'll be doing today, coughing, wheezing and reading.

Yay.

Sunday, September 18, 2005

Clearly

I have no clue who will win an Emmy. I have been completely, utterly wrong up to this point.

Although, yay, 'Lost' won.

John Rogers is a god

Read this. Read it now! (It's about TV series, the changing dynamics in TV and it's really really good. What other reasons do you need, click the link!)

Emmy predictions

Ellen Degeneres will be mostly funny and the show won't feel 8 hours long...

Oh, let's go with winner predictions, always more fun. (My predicted winner in bold)

Drama Series
Comedy Series
Lead Actor in a Drama Series
Lead Actress in a Drama Series
Lead Actor in a Comedy Series
Lead Actress in a Comedy Series
Supporting Actor in Drama Series
Supporting Actress in Drama Series
Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series
Supporting Actress in a Comedy Series

All of these categories are important, but what about the ones that matter to us, the writers?? And for this list, I'm going to credit the writers -- all of them!

Writing for a Comedy Series
Writing for a Drama Series

There you have it, my predictions. Make yours before showtime.

Friday, September 16, 2005

My horses in the cancellation derby

Now, this is without seeing most of the new shows, but here is what I predict will not make the cut (and these are not in order...I fully expect UPN or WB to beat Fox to the punch in cancelling a show before 'Head Cases' gets the axe).

Head Cases
Just Legal (no way no how anyone will tune in for Don Johnson. Sorry Don).
Twins (no way no how anyone will tune in for Don Johnsons's ex. Sorry Melanie).
Fathom/Surface (whatever it's called this week)
Reunion (this was just horrible)
Freddie
The Night Stalker
Ghost Whisperer
Out of Practice (yeah, I hadn't heard of it either)
Killer Instinct (thankfully, people will tire of gross crime stories, and hey, they can get that on CBS all week long!)
The War at Home
Inconceivable

Wow, you're thinking. That's a lot of shows headed to the fall season graveyard. What does that leave standing at the end of the season (or at least until mid-season):

Threshold
Criminal Minds
E-Ring (although, I'm on the fence on this one)
Bones
Commander-in-Chief
Hot Properties
Invasion
Close to Home
How I Met Your Mother
My Name is Earl
Kitchen Confidential
Prison Break
The Apprentice: Martha Stewart
Three Wishes
Everybody Hates Chris
Love, Inc (yeah, but UPN has so little to work with)
Sex, Love and Secrets (again, I'm cutting UPN a break, just like they do with their shows...unless it places dead last)
Related
Supernatural

See? You thought I was being harsh, but I'm giving more than 60% of the new shows a shot at survival. I think that sitcoms will do particularly well this year (even though there are some duds) and remember, this isn't based on me seeing all the shows or even on the quality of the shows. I base my predictions on strength of schedule, concept of show, ability to grow, stars attached, network involved and pure gut instinct.

I'll track my accuracy as the season progresses. If I'm wrong, I'll call it, but you heard it here folks...

Thursday, September 15, 2005

The Race is On

Which show will be the first to cancellation? What series will bow out in disgrace after viewers fail to connect?

So far it looks like Fox's Head Cases comes out of the gate ahead of the others in the cancellation pack.

Scratch that one off your 'potential spec' list folks. This one is DOA.

Robert Wise

has died.

Wednesday, September 14, 2005

Status Report

I started my 'new job' at work (long story) so I've been busy getting acclimated. Also had a cousin in town this week who we (my sis and I) entertained last night. Meanwhile, I'm working on the second draft of my treatment after lots of notes from producer/sister.

I've signed up for the TV spec rewrite/polish class for fall. This will probably be my last class for awhile, but I plan on putting my 'House' spec through this class and then sending it out to agents by November.

I just joined a writers group that meets down the block from me. Good group and I think I will learn a lot from them.

So, that's what I'm doing. Anyone see any good films lately?

Saturday, September 10, 2005

Film Friday for August

Yup, it's that time again. End of the month. Let's see what remakes, sequels and TV adaptations Hollywood has in store for us.

Matt Helm - Once a spoofy film series with Dean Martin, set to be remade as a more serious film this time around.
Rififi - Remake of the French film with (Hoo-hah) Al Pacino.
Old School 2 - Because we need more naked Will Ferrell.
How to Tell He's Not the One in 10 Days - Apparently this is a sequel to How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days. They both have long titles, so it must be.
Battle of the Network Stars - I think this is one of the signs of the Apocalypse.
Casino Royale - I've reported on this one before, but they really truly are going to make it (honest!) Paul Haggis is going to rewrite it. So I'd expect it to be less campy. Just a hunch.

I'm impressed, Hollywood! This is a very short list. Of course, I'm sure that there's more creative bankruptcy waiting around the corner. That should help you sleep at night, I'm sure.

Friday, September 09, 2005

Spec Season

Great article from Clark Perry on the free Writer's Nite Out seminar held recently (hey, why didn't I know about that??)

Things to know for attending a premiere

Don't wear open-toed shoes, unless you are sitting at a VIP table.
Don't sit down at a table with someone else's name on it.
Be prepared for photographers to look at you to see if you are famous and then quickly turn away when they realize you are not (and let's face it, not many writers make it to the 'famous' list).
Don't dress down too much, but don't dress up too much. The former will make you look homeless and the latter will make you look "purchased".

I'll add more as I think of them. These were just the things I observed at a post-premiere party. I don't think they write books on premiere etiquette, do they?

Wednesday, September 07, 2005

Film Friday is coming

About a week late, but I'll recap the August remakes, sequels and TV adaptations to the big screen at the end of the week.

Gotta keep up the traditions around here...

Discussion topic - treatments

I have to write a treatment for my TV pilot (don't ask, no I haven't sold or pitched anything yet).

How would you write it -- narrative 2 page summary of the story? Or outline style, split between the Teaser and four acts?

Discuss.

Tuesday, September 06, 2005

Lost fanatics!

Yup today was the day -- they released Season 1 on DVD. Because I am the luckiest human alive, I happened to be at the Disney lot when the writers were autographing the DVDs, so I got to meet several of the gods of the show.

I'm still basking in the glow. Hopefully their genius has rubbed off on me.

Sunday, September 04, 2005

Writing update

I finished my 'House' spec in time for my last class on Wednesday. So what now? Well, I have a TV pilot to write. I'm collaborating with my sister who will one day be a very powerful producer (hey, I'm ridin' her coattails, I have to keep the faith). I'm looking forward to creating my own characters and 'universe' for a TV show.

I'll rewrite my TV specs in about a month and once I'm happy with them -- I'll hold my breath and send them out into the world.

Somewhere in here I'm going to keep outlining my new feature spec. I have a lot to do before the end of the year.

I may finally adopt the progress bars. I added a place for them in the sidebar, now I just have to get the code in there.

Hope everyone is having a fabulous Labor Day weekend. Certainly it is overshadowed by the disaster in the Gulf States. Keep the victims in your thoughts and prayers.

Thursday, September 01, 2005

Blogging for a Cause

I know, it's hard. Everywhere you turn there are pictures, stories and other reminders of what is happening along the Gulf Coast. I've already detailed the charities I am supporting financially today and urge you to give what you can, even if it is a small amount.

I'd love to show that screenbloggers can pull together and help out, really show up the political blogs that are raising most of the money. Can you imagine what it would be like if Los Angeles were hit with the 'Doomsday Quake'? I'd hope that the residents of the Gulf Coast would help us, just as they need us to help them now.

Log your donation

If you make a donation based on reading this blog, you can log your donation here. You can also see how much the blogs involved in this effort have helped raise today.

I am thinking of ways to inspire folks to donate -- maybe I could write stories or something, blog on a particular topic for donations. If you have any suggestions, let me know.

Donation update

So far I've made donations to the American Red Cross and the Salvation Army today.

I've also donated to another worthy charity, one I've supported in the past (I have also adopted a soldier through them) and is called Soldiers' Angels. They are collecting money for the families of soldiers who have been affected by the floods. These soldiers may have nothing to come home to. Consider donating to this or other military family charities. (I have also donated to Operation AC. Both of these charities are reputable and provide needed services.)

Blogging for Hurricane Katrina Victims

Truth Laid Bear has a registry of blogs participating in the blogger relief.

I've already donated to the American Red Cross, but my charity of choice today is the Salvation Army, to which I have already donated. I've given to this charity often and they seem to be really effective, moreso than the United Way and others that were deluged with cash post 9/11 but didn't know how to handle it.

Avoid unscrupulous charities by checking them out first via Charity Navigator.

Michelle Malkin, who has put aside politics for the most part today, has a great summary of various charities, if you prefer to donate to another charity.

The message today is to DONATE.

More on the Salvation Army's efforts (from their website):

The Salvation Army is currently providing services to storm victims and first responders in Hattiesburg, MS, Mobile, AL and New Orleans, LA

* 500 storm refugees sought safe shelter and food at The Salvation Army’s centers in New Orleans and Mobile.
* Canteens are serving hot meals to storm victims and first responders in Hattiesburg, MS and Mobile, AL.
* Additional canteens are staged in Baton Rouge, LA, Jackson, MS and Mobile, AL to be deployed to affected areas along the Gulf Coast once emergency response authorities determine that it is safe to enter these areas

The Salvation Army is prepared to serve up to 500,000 hot meals per day to residents and first responders in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.

* More than 250 volunteers, employees and officers will serve the meals from approximately 100 mobile canteens that are able to provide up to 5,000 hot meals per day.
* In addition, the Army has staged two, 54-foot mobile Base Camp kitchens that can provide 20,000 hot meals per day; one is in Baton Rouge; the other in Mobile, and will be moved once emergency response authorities determine a safe location for them.

A $100 donation will feed a family of four for two days, provide 2 cases of drinking water and one household clean-up kit, containing brooms, mops, buckets, and cleaning supplies.

Glenn Reynolds roundup post.

Also, Technorati tags flood aid and Hurricane Katrina.

More hurricane blogging here throughout the day. Screenblogging will resume in a couple of days.

Wednesday, August 31, 2005

Blogger Aid Day

There's a large effort underway in the blogosphere today at a 'bloggerthon' to donate to charities which will aid the victims of Hurricane Katrina. I plan to donate to the American Red Cross and the Salvation Army today.

I know John Rogers is matching funds, so you might want to reference him if you do it (if you want to make him feel the pinch). Or, check with your employer to see if they do matching contributions.

I have family in Mississippi who escaped the flooding. Others aren't so lucky. They are in my thoughts and prayers.

UPDATE: Actually, the official 'Blogger Relief Day' is tomorrow. I'll be registering my website with the effort. Stay tuned for details tomorrow. Feel free to donate today of course. :-)

Monday, August 29, 2005

Quiet

If I'm not so talkative, you know what it means -- I'm writing. I have to finish my House spec to turn in on Wednesday, so I'm furiously writing this week. I have 14 pages to go and big chunks to rewrite before I turn in a semi-not-crappy draft to my instructor.

Then I get a day to rest. I'll talk to you Thursday.

Thursday, August 25, 2005

You say it's your birthday...

So, now I'm 31. Yesterday was my birthday.

I didn't make a big deal of it because, frankly, it isn't a big deal. I also wanted to see how many of my friends remembered.

Everyone I count as a 'close friend' forgot or ignored. Close family remembered. Even a couple of acquaintances remembered. Friends of my sister remembered. It's the close friends forgetting that I'm bummed about, of course. I don't even know why it gnaws at me...it's just a effing birthday, right?

The problem is that when you're a kid (most people anyway, you weirdos who didn't celebrate birthdays need not apply) everyone makes a big deal of your "special day". You get used to people treating you special on your birthday. As you get older, you hit certain milestones that get celebrated wildly -- 18 and 21, for example tend to be great birthdays. 25 was even a good one. You might even get a good party out of some friends for a non-significant year.

I have an extra twist to my birthday: my sister was born on my 3rd birthday. That's right, it's 'her birthday too.' When we were kids, this was a nightmare for my parents. Imagine trying to hold birthday parties and try to make it special for each one. I sympathize with parents who have twins and have to deal with this issue. It was also sometimes torture for us. I can't tell you how many times we were cheated with a gift that was to *both* of us. What about my goddamn special day?? And she was thinking the same thing...

Now we're older and we handle the whole birthday thing much better. In fact, we embrace it. We buy ourselves cake, take a trip, whatever. It was really nice for a group of her friends who have adopted me too to share OUR birthday with us. Still, I was sad that MY friends were MIA.

I always feel bad mentioning it's my birthday too, like I'm soliciting for birthday wishes. The person you've told feels obligated to say 'happy birthday' and you feel crappy that you had to tell someone. Except when free food is involved. But then, I don't want a crowd of wait staff singing to me in another language while a large sombrero is placed on my head. Not my idea of fun, really.

So, don't feel obligated to wish me happy birthday. I'm only mentioning it because yesterday is on my mind and I needed to spew about it so I can get on with my day.

Today is someone else's birthday, somewhere. If you know anyone who has a birthday, even if you haven't talked to them in years, wish them happy birthday. They'll be glad you did and you'll feel better too.

You don't know if anyone else has taken the time to do it. And you could make that day special for them again.

Monday, August 22, 2005

Dog Days

I always have mixed feelings about August.

On the one hand, I love it, it means school is around the corner (though I haven't been in the backpack and pencil buying set for quite some time). It also means my birthday is near. But, despite all of that, it is still August. Hot, sticky August. There's a reason very little happens in this month. It's so hot no one wants to move. That Iraqi Constitution? I don't blame them for moving slow -- IT'S AUGUST! In fact, it's a great excuse. The Pope forgot to bless people? It's August! Another pretty girl is missing? It's August! Can't get your screenplay written? You guessed it, it's August!

I dreamt about a dog that had 5 heads last night. It's August.

Sunday, August 21, 2005

Back from Vegas

No, I didn't win any money, so 'Plan B' (i.e. Keep the Day Job) is still in effect. 'Plan A', otherwise known as 'Win the Lotto and/or Sell Spec to quit said Day Job' is on hold for another day.

Otherwise, it was a good weekend and a good break. Sorry to miss the Screenblogger's Shindig, but hopefully no one had a swordfight. I'd hate to miss a good swordfight.

I've got some stuff to blog about this week, so stay tuned. More to come on Monday.

Friday, August 19, 2005

AB 777

One of my least favorite California politicians has drafted an interesting bill that has bipartisan support. The bill, AB 777 would provide tax breaks to keep film production in California. (See recent posts at The Artful Writer for more on runaway production).

Legislators are hoping to push the vote on this bill quickly, so it can land on the Governor's desk before the September recess.

I'll keep an eye on this...

Wednesday, August 17, 2005

A moment of silence...

For Joe Ranft. Not only was he a brilliant story guy at Pixar, but he actually breathed life into some of those digital creations by voicing them...like Heimlich the caterpillar here.

He died in a car crash yesterday. He was 45.

Tuesday, August 16, 2005

What, you were expecting a party?

I'm having a crappy week. The only salvation is going to Vegas this weekend.

I was hoping to hear about a potential job -- it's disappeared without a microbe left behind to identify it ever existed.

A family member had some recent health issues. No, I'm not sayin' who or what.

Another family member is getting screwed royally at work.

I'm still doing two jobs at work, no end in sight.

I'm way behind on my House spec. And I can't make it all work in my head.

So yeah, I'm pretty quiet. I'll come back when I'm not so pissy.

Tuesday, August 09, 2005

Back!

And not a moment too soon, I might add. What were you people drinking while I was gone??

So, had a fabulous time driving around the state of Cal-ee-forn-ee-ah (best pronounced as Arnold does). Visited the giant Sequoias, Yosemite, San Jose, some garlicky Gilroy town (passed through on way to San Jose...smelled VERY BAD in Gilroy) and then down the PCH. Visited Hearst Castle yesterday and the Winchester Mystery House in San Jose, both fascinating tours.

I live in a beautiful state. Pity I don't get out of the city much. What was strange was the feeling of relief being back in Los Angeles today. Maybe it's just the feeling when you get home from a trip, like 'I missed my bed' or other comforts of your home, but I was genuinely happy to be back. Happy to leave, happy to be back, the most I could hope for.

So, I didn't write a thing all weekend, and I feel recharged, ready to tackle the rest of my spec script and then dive into my next feature script. I'm looking forward to what I hope are some very productive days and weeks ahead.

Oh, and as for the film I wish I had seen in a theater, my vote goes to "House of Flying Daggers". Some may criticize how many films I see in theaters, but there are very few films out there I *wish* I had seen in a theater. My runner-up was "Dirty Pretty Things" just because when I read the screenplay I was dying to see it and I had to wait until it came out on DVD by that time.

Thursday, August 04, 2005

Open Thread

I'm out of town until Tuesday, so I'll see you all then -- FINALLY getting out of L.A. to see some of the state that is not covered with smog.

Until then, I'll leave an open thread...what film did you discover on DVD/video that you wish you had seen in the theater on first run? (and you had the opportunity to see in the theater -- rediscovering a 1940's film doesn't count, unless you were a moviegoer at that time).

Tuesday, August 02, 2005

3-2-1 Contact!

If you have not read my previous posts about relationship management, check here.

So, it's Tuesday again, which means it's time to put aside the discussion of story, structure, character and what not and talk turkey about the business of screenwriting. Now, I am not a professional screenwriter (yet). I have not sold a script (yet). I have never been given an assignment (you guessed it, YET). What I do know is how to manage relationships. In my nine years at my day job, one critical component of my job has been to cultivate and grow relationships with others to maintain our business. I have taken many of the lessons learned there to better connect with people related to the film and television world. So, take my advice or don't...I'm just putting it out there, to try to help a few souls from making some of the mistakes I've made.

First up, I want to recommend a book. I know, not another screenwriting book. This one isn't really about screenwriting, per se, but it is a really interesting look into this world. Michael Lent's Breakfast with Sharks is a great read and pretty different from your standard 'How To' book. Oh, did I mention I've met Michael? Yup, he's one of my contacts.

Quick story: 2002 Screenwriting Expo. I did no networking. Very stupid, but then, I hadn't written a script yet and I didn't have a clue. 2003 Screenwriting Expo 2. My first day I vowed to meet at least 2 individuals I could keep contact with after the expo. One of the people I talked to was Michael. He held a panel which I attended and I talked with him afterwards. He had a booth in the vendor room, because he and and another person were co-producers on an indie film called "Hard Scrambled". I hung out with both of them in between my panels, chit-chatting and generally soaking up the atmosphere. They were both writers for Creative Screenwriting too, so I had already read a lot of their articles to get a feel for what their passions were. It was a lot of fun. I ended the expo having forged at least a passing acquaintance with these two writers. This was the start of my networking.

Here's the bad part. I didn't follow up with them...for 18 months! In March Creative Screenwriting put out an e-mail that they were hosting a mixer. I decided to go, just on the off-chance that Michael or the other person might be there, they being writers for the magazine and all. Whaddya know, they were! Better yet, after some prompting, each of them remembered me and some of what I told them about myself. In the meantime I had read Michael's book and was able to discuss it with him. I now correspond with Michael pretty often and I count him as someone I respect and admire a great deal.

I'm fortunate to have met Michael. I consider him one of the contacts that is fast morphing into a 'friend' relationship (I mean really, he is the nicest person I have met in all of L.A., he's kind of an alien here now that I think about it) and I feel very lucky to know him. In fact, I don't really consider what my contact with him will net me down the road, because honestly, his friendship means a lot. That's one great thing about making contacts -- some of them become your friends!!

The key to maintaining a relationship with someone will seem obvious after I say it -- you keep in touch. You don't e-mail them every day or call them every week, but you do it just often enough, maybe once a month or a few times a year (depending on the contact) for them to remember who you are and keep you in their mind. Most of the contacts can be maintained with a quick e-mail 'hey, how you doing, what's new' kind of messages. Others require more -- massaging, especially if they are to become a key contact.

A key contact is one you identify as possibly being able to provide you with a lead down the road. You should always look for ways to 'scratch people's backs'. Maybe you can recommend a dog walker or you have free tickets to an event. Don't go too far afield to work the contact, but hey, you are shmoozing here, try to find something that you can use. When you bump someone up to key contact, you might want to consider a coffee or lunch date (you pay, always you pay for your key contact) to get some good one on one time with the person.

Here's what you DON'T do with a key contact:

* Ask for a job. I've done this in jest with a couple of people, so they know I'm serious about getting into the business, but I've NEVER actually approached a key contact with a resume, looking for a job. Let people know you are looking, if you are, but never ask someone to hire you.

* Ask them to read your script. If they ask you what you've written let them know. I suggest you wait for them to offer to read it. If I can remember the link, I'll post it, how someone sold their first script by keeping it from the person they wanted to read it. As I recall the story (and it is killing me that I don't remember who it was!) the writer had been working for a magazine doing interviews. He had finished an interview with an agent and mentioned he had finished a script. She asked to read it and he refused to send it to her -- repeatedly. He sent it out to everyone else in the world when it was ready, except the one person who asked for it. Eventually, she got her hands on it and wanted to buy it. He reasoned that she would want it more if she couldn't get it than if he had just handed it over to her and she passed. I have no idea if this would work for others, but I love the story...and if I find the friggin' link I'll add it!

* Don't become a burden. You do not want to ask this person for favors. You want this person to enjoy talking to you and want to help you, not avoid you like the plague.

So what DO you do with a key contact?

Talk. Discuss. And it can be non-writing things. Find out the person's interests, just like you would with anyone else. In my day job, I try to find out at least one hobby the person has, so I can ask them about it when I talk to them in the future (So, have you been skiing lately? How is that Lego version of Middle Earth coming along?) Ask about their experiences, but be polite. Don't take up too much of their time. Even if they wrote a crap movie or TV show, try to find a silver lining SOMEWHERE -- it may not have been their fault, after all.

If you manage your contacts well, a couple of things will happen. One, you'll feel more confident as a writer as you travel in circles with other writers and people in the business. You can gain a lot of insight into the business by befriending an assistant here or there (Michael Lent has a great chapter on being nice to assistants -- and I wholeheartedly agree. Even in my day job I find it critical to have a good relationship with the 'gatekeeper') The other thing that will happen over time is that your contacts will want to help you. They will offer to read your script, put in a good word for you, give you advice. Do not discount ANY offer of assistance from any contact. It may not always amount to one of your big goals, but you should always be appreciative of any help offered.

Beware of charlatans or poseurs. You know what I mean. If they start asking you to do more for them than seems right (like, write a script for free...that "producer" friend might not be all he's cracked up to be) don't be afraid to back away. As I've said before, everyone is a contact, but not everyone is a KEY CONTACT. Know the difference.

I have found over time in my day job that I have been on the receiving end of relationship management. This is usually good. It means people do things for me and I find some way to assist them with what they need. Usually the person being "managed" makes out on the deal, but that's the point. Your contact should get more out of your relationship than you do to start. You should reap the benefits on the backend.

It is an investment of time and energy, but done correctly Relationship Management can really put you ahead of the game when it comes to navigating the waters of whatever industry you are in (believe me, this works just as well in IT or manufacturing as it does with screenwriting -- why do you think trade shows and conferences are so popular??)

By all means, add your two cents. I don't claim to have the market cornered on how to manage relationships.

One final book recommendation -- this one is a general guide to managing relationships: The Relationship Edge in Business. There are lots of relevant strategies for screenwriters to use.

Film Friday (on a Tuesday) for 7/31

It's the end of the month and if you are a long time reader of this blog, you know what that means...that's right, time to recap the remakes, sequels and TV adaptations announced from the studios this month. No idea is too bad to remake or too good to sequelize. So, without further ado, I give you the roundup:

Road House 2 - The month started of weak and it wasn't until two weeks in we got our first news of a sequel, but boy what a sequel it is!
Hollow Man 2 - Didn't realize this one needed a sequel, but apparently, I was wrong. I love that they casually mention this "might" go to home video. I'm thinking that's a definite yes.
I Know What You Did Last Summer 3 - The best part of this sequel is coming up with a good title...I Know What You Did Two Summers Ago That Was Really Five Summers Ago. Maybe they'll just know something else someone did a previous summer...
Summer School - I'm guess Mark Harmon will not reprise his role in the remake, which is a shame, because I think he's available.
Untitled Smurf Movie - A SMURF MOVIE?? How did I miss this news? Stop the presses -- we must shout out to the world the smurftacular news! Smurfy!! Better yet, it's planned as a trilogy. Lord of the Smurfs, anyone (One Smurf to Rule Them All...okay, I'll stop)
The Omen 666 - Haley Joel Osment is too old so I guess they'll have to find an unknown to play Damien.
Voltron: Defender of the Universe - Saturday morning cartoons of the 80's had a good month!
Charlie Chan - But, but, there's a twist, see. It's his granddaughter! Played by Lucy Liu. Can't be too un-PC if she's doing it!

A little light this month, but fear not. We've already heard that the casting is rolling on the Invasion of the Body Snatchers remake, so you know Hollywood is still finding ways to remake what once was good into something...not so good. Glad to know all is right with the world.

Friday, July 29, 2005

Tee-hee!

I got such a good idea for a feature that I'm clapping my hands together chanting 'Hercules, Hercules'. If it weren't for the fact I need to be writing my 'House' spec right now, I'd dig in on this.

It feels like I'm being denied a new shiny toy. I need to just add it to my wishlist for later. Hoo-boy I think this one's a keeper.

Cool picture of the day

A frozen lake on Mars. Actual photo. It's beautiful.

Thursday, July 28, 2005

My classmates hate me

It's not my fault, really. I just can't help it when I see something that could be better, I just want to help them fix it.

The result: I talk too much in class. The teacher doesn't say it, I'm sure she wouldn't, but I don't blame my classmates for resenting me and my big mouth.

One good rule of feedback: Don't overload people. Of course, I consider myself bulletproof in the feedback department, but others might not be...

Tuesday, July 26, 2005

Relationship management 101

So we've talked about the importance of networking and how/where to potentially meet other writers and people in the business. Now you need to know what to say to those people and how to keep those connections strong. Most importantly, you have to make your connections work for you.

Let's back up and talk more generally here. I don't know about you, but I find that sometimes I don't do a good job at managing my relationships with others. You meet someone, exchange business cards or program each other into your cellphones and then...you don't follow up. Or they don't call back. Either way, the relationship withers and dies. When that happens, you've just broken the first rule in Relationship Management: Never lose a contact.

You may not understand where each contact fits into the big picture, but that's more reason not to let them fade away. Look at the following list of "contacts" and determine what they all have in common:

-- a writer from your class writing their first script
-- a blogger you've been reading who appears to be working on a TV spec
-- a person you met at the Screenwriting Expo who works as an assistant at a studio
-- a grip who works on films and would like to be a director

Beyond the obvious of 'they are all working their way into or are in the business' there's another key similarity -- they are all contacts! Each one of these people has the potential to be someone you can talk to, pass work to, work with...the possibilities are endless.

Here's a story from my life. This is an example of what NOT to do in managing relationships.

When my sister and I first moved to our condo, our neighbors(who have since moved) were a hairdresser for TV/films on one side and in the other unit was an older woman who used to be a script supervisor. The woman who used to be a script supervisor offered to teach me her craft, something that can be very good work once you get in the union and can also help you understand your writing. She moved out a couple of months after I moved in and I had every intention of keeping her as a contact...

...until I lost her phone number. I tried to track her down, but I still can't find her, a year later. That was BAD. That was a contact I could learn from, who was willing to teach me something that is a very usable skill in this industry and would have helped my writing. (I'll post about script supervisors and what they do some other time, if there's interest). The lesson I learned here was, SAVE EVERYONE'S PHONE NUMBER/E-MAIL ADDRESS/CONTACT INFO. Keep a spreadsheet on your computer or use your e-mail program or a palm pilot to store your contacts. Write them in a book. Whatever you have to do to keep the information, don't lose it.

So, here's a scenario. You've seen that someone has just written a new book about screenwriting and is going to be signing books, maybe even doing a Q&A at a local bookstore (I've done this one for networking too -- doesn't happen as often, but still a good one). What should you do?

Here are some possibilities. Let's say you haven't written anything yet. At this point, you need to make connections to learn from people (hopefully that's why you are reading blogs too). Talk to the author, talk to others who have come to the signing. Find out what their interests are. The basic question you can ask anyone is 'what are you working on?' This is a good place to start. If you've met another newbie, you can swap stories of your attempts to write and maybe you've just found someone who can keep you motivated (like a workout buddy, but a writing buddy). If someone has just finished a script and is looking for feedback, maybe you can (down the line, not the first time meeting them) offer to read the work and offer feedback. Maybe you've met someone who is trying to get an agent. You can learn from this person too. They have an agent? Even better, then you know someone you can talk to about submitting work to agents when the time comes.

Now you talk to the author of the book who is signing things, maybe while getting the autograph on the book you will buy (hey, I didn't say this trip was free) or if you're a cheapskate wait until after the Q&A and try to steal a moment with the person. Usually you can do this unless the author is on a tight schedule. Start with the usual, 'your book sounds great, looking forward to reading it'...oh, you DID read up on the person before you went, right? If you are going to be successful in relationship management, follow Rule Number Two: Know your contact. If the person has credits, know them. This is what Google was made for. Be able to compliment them on something they've done. Bonus points if you take the time to read something else they've written or seen a film they wrote. Again, ask about their latest project besides the book. Trust me, they'll have one. Now you've reached a decision point. It could be that this person won't care about getting your contact information and if the person is pretty well known, he/she could be pretty wary of giving out contact info. No matter, you don't need a phone number/e-mail in hand for this one. After all, you know who their publisher is. And if you do your research you'll find another way to contact them. The key here is to make the connection, have the conversation. You never know when 'I met you at your books signing at Barnes & Noble in April and I really enjoyed your book' might come in handy.

So far, we've presented the first two rules of Relationship Management:

1. Never Lose A Contact
2. Know Your Contact

Next Tuesday we'll get into how to maintain your contacts and make them work for you.

Firefly

I finally got my box set and I've started watching all of the episodes, some I've not seen since it was on. I was there -- from the beginning, fat lot of good that did. Man was it a great show cut down too early in life.

I'm geared up for the movie now.

Monday, July 25, 2005

Shouting for a year

Today marks the 1st birthday of this blog. I started it as a way to spout off about whatever came to mind and over the course of the year it guided me to its true purpose -- to discuss my writing and my journey to become a working (paid) writer.

So here's to the next year of 'Shouting into the Wind'. May I never get too hoarse or my lips get too chapped. :-)

Sunday, July 24, 2005

Alone on 'The Island'?

Went to see The Island this weekend. Apparently, I was the only one (though I'd swear the theater I was in was pretty full). I actually enjoyed the film a lot, which makes me wonder 2 things:

1. Is it okay to like Michael Bay? All of the critics tell me not to. I probably shouldn't tell them of my secret love for Armageddon

2. Did I miss the memo that said 'don't see this really expensive movie' this weekend?

I dunno. I'm gonna offset my sin of enjoying a Michael Bay movie by going to see March of the Penguins today. I loves me some penguins.

Friday, July 22, 2005

How sad is the education system in this country?

...if people continue to search for the film Hustle and Flow by looking for "hustel and flow"...someone happened to typo it in the comments and so people are finding the blog.

Okay, if you are looking for this film or information about it, you might want to heed Google when it asks you Do you mean Hustle and Flow?

...unless you are German. Then you are allowed to misspell.

Wednesday, July 20, 2005

Without A Box

Most folks know that Moviebytes.com has a pretty comprehensive list of screenwriting contests and film festivals.

Now meet Withoutabox.com. Register (basic membership is free) with this website and you can see many of the current contests and film festivals accepting submissions. Some even offer a discount on the entry fee to Withoutabox members. If you upload your script with information, you can submit it to some contests through their website, saving you time and money.

Check it out!

Tuesday, July 19, 2005

It's about who you know...

Admit it, we'd all like to believe that talent alone will get us noticed, get us an agent, get us a job or a sold spec. As with any other career and probably more so, we know the truth is there is a combination of factors that will help us along. Talent is pretty important but talent is not the most important thing to have. Luck is hard to gauge, but I'd assert it plays a part. No, the most important factor in success has got to be determination. But how do you focus your determination into positive results.

Answer, you've gotta have friends.

Networking is probably the most important skill to have as an aspiring screenwriter. I like many others I'm sure, can be pretty darn hermit-like. While this may be great for focusing on honing our craft and making our scripts great, it doesn't help us much in "playing the game." I also don't think there's any shame in networking. I've actually met other aspiring screenwriters who have told me that they feel that an agent will kill for their script. Sure, they don't know anyone at CAA or Endeavor, but their script is dynomite and it cannot be denied.

Look, this blogging thing -- it's great to keep me motivated, but I'll admit it, it's also a way to connect with other people. Don't be closed off to any avenues of meeting people. In my experience, here are a few of the best ways:

Take a class -- I've taken several classes at UCLA and in each one I make a point to stay in contact with instructors and classmates. Building a good network takes time, but this can provide you a quick way to advance your circle of friends and colleagues very quickly.
Message boards -- The Artful Writer is a great one. So is Wordplay. Without being in the WGA, these boards provide not only insight into working writers' psyches but direct access to them. Along with message boards, the next best thing are other writer blogs, particularly working writers like John August. Now, don't be stupid and ask them straight out for a job. That will get you nowhere fast. Many of these blogger writers are however willing and able to answer questions from newbies. Take advantage and LEARN.
Meetup.com -- Did you know there's a Hollywood screenwriters meetup group? Actually, there are many many meetup screenwriter's groups all across the country. See if there's one in your area and join it. If there isn't one near you, why not start one? You may be surprised how many aspiring screenwriters live in your area...
Other writer groups -- Besides Meetup.com, there are other writer groups out there. I know the Alameda Writer's Group (AWG) is a pretty substantial one. I've already signed up to their Yahoo! group and plan to attend the next meeting, provided I'm in town. Some groups may charge a membership fee, so be sure to check. Don't live in Los Angeles? Again, just start googling. Another way to find other writer's is to refer to my previous suggestion about taking a class. Can't afford a class? Why not just post a flyer at the nearest campus looking for writers to share pages and to meet with. You may be able to form a group without hitting the classroom.
Screenwriting Expo -- It's probably the biggest screenwriting event in the country (Austin's Festival is probably #2). Hundreds, no, thousands of aspiring writers will be there taking in panels, listening to writers, pitching scripts. You could meet not only other writers, but pros, maybe even an agent or two. Networking goldmine.

So you've found some ways to network. What do you do when you network? How should you approach people? How do you build connections with people. Most importantly, how can you make these connections work for you?

Ah, that's the next post. Stay tuned.

Sunday, July 17, 2005

Random update

Finished reading Harry Potter VI today. I'll reserve my comments/review until I feel everyone who wants to read it has and those who won't get around to it won't care what I say. I dare not incur the wrath of a Harry Potter fan who hasn't finished the latest book.

This one was shorter than the last one, only 650 pages. I blazed right through it. Read about an hour or so yesterday and finished it in 6 today. Kinda slow for me, but I did take breaks to eat and clean the kitchen...

So, I'm off to see Wedding Crashers. Will try to catch Charlie and the Chocolate Factory later this week.

What did everyone else do this weekend?

Saturday, July 16, 2005

Feedback

So, got my first draft (and I mean really really rushed first draft) of my "House" spec outline back from my instructor (btw, for those keeping score, this is a new class so the instructor for this class does NOT write for "House". The instructor for my previous class does write for the show.)

So, how to interpret the notes...there are exactly 2, not counting the 'Very Good!' at the top of the first page. Note number 1 tells me that a scene in Act 4 might not be needed. Note number two says that another scene later on in the Act could be combined with the scene I might not need.

That's it. Those are the notes. I'm not sure I can revise my draft from this.

So either it is 1) the most brilliant outline ever written or 2) it was so bad she didn't know what to point out.

Please God, let it be #2. I don't know if I could handle it being really brilliant.

Working on the revision of my "Lost" spec today. I'll go back to the outline during the week...

Thursday, July 14, 2005

Emmy Nominations

The Emmy nominations were announced this morning. Here's the full list.

You have to scroll quite aways to get to the writing categories. I was thrilled to see that the "Three Stories" episode of House was nominated, as it was definitely my favorite of the season. Oddly enough, it was the one episode my instructor (who writes for the show) wasn't sure about...

Lost picked up two writing nominations. Yay for Terry O'Quinn and Naveen Andrews getting supporting actor noms!

Also note the sad state of sitcoms.

So, other reactions...?

Wednesday, July 13, 2005

On the heels of that study news yesterday...

Study indicates that one-third of studies don't hold up

Is any other comment really needed here? Create your own punchline...

Tuesday, July 12, 2005

Fire up the B movie engines!

This story (hat tip: Slashdot) discusses the revival of B movies on the Sci-fi Channel, which is investing about $21 million for 28 more films.

I helped write a short 'B' movie once for my sister's class. I think it's time to dust that puppy off and bring it back as a feature!

It took a study to validate this?

A new study notes that at least 90% of DVR users skip the commercials.

Ummm...duh?

I use my DVR many times for the sole purpose of skipping commericals. I'll start recording a show and turn it on about 16 minutes in so I can watch the whole thing without sitting through a single commercial.

Talk about a waste of money studying that phenomenon. Hey, guess what geniuses, 90% of web surfers hate pop up ads and ignore them or block them! You need to study that? Give me $100K and I'll prove it to ya with pretty charts and graphs and everything!!

Sheesh...

Monday, July 11, 2005

Ok, here's the movie that left me at the altar...

Four Weddings and a Funeral Abso-bloody-lutely brilliant...except the last 5 minutes.

"It's raining? I hadn't noticed." Worst. Delivery. Of Lame Line. EVER.

Okay, I'll give them that, but then they happily enjoy living in sin and not getting married or some crap like that?

To this day, I'll watch the film all the way through, and shut it off right before he goes after her. Makes me so mad.

Movies that cheese you off

So, Sunday my sister came home from seeing a film -- the French dubbed version of "High Tension". She says, "I liked it up until the point I didn't like it" (I'm paraphrasing).

Essentially her beef with the film was that it was almost brilliant if you could get past the gaping plot hole the size of a Mac truck. It could have been a great 3rd act twist -- it actually was until she said, "hey wait a minute, that can't be right..."

Movie that gets the 3rd act twist right in this vein: The Sixth Sense. Everything in that film lines up and makes sense and on rewatching you half think to yourself, 'how could I miss that??'

This one got close but couldn't reach the bar. And she was there with it. She said it was thrilling, edge of your seat stuff...until the end. So frustrating.

So, any movies that 'had you at hello' but left you before the end of Act III? I'll have to mull over my top pick, but I'll post it soon.

Inbreeding

I've updated the blogroll to reflect some new screenwriting blogs -- I think we are all feeding off each other now.

Next step: how do we draw others into our little web, hmm? How shall we pull the unsuspecting into discussions of 3-act vs. 4-act vs. sequences structure or FD vs. MMS or brads vs. brass fasteners (see Artful Writer Forum FAQ for final word on that I guess)...

Who will we be able to taunt with calls for 'Concept vs. Execution' -- We can't keep going 'round in circles on this one between the 30 or 40 or so of us...

So, I propose a project for the week. Invite one friend to visit any of the screenwriting blogs (and you know what they are). Pick any blog. Pick any friend. Only rule is, they cannot have visited a Screenwriting Blog in the past.

I'd challenge you to 5 friends, but I know I can't pull that off myself. I can count on one hand minus a finger the number of friends I have. Subtract 2 more fingers for friends who haven't read a screenwriting blog...

We must refill the gene pool!

DIY DVD??

This story prompts an interesting question:

In the future, will movie viewers at home become editors?

I mean, think of the possibilities! I've said myself that I *love* the old Choose Your Own Adventure books. In the future, could the screenwriter set out various scenes and the viewer at home choose their movie? It could mean dozens of viewings and multiple opportunities for creative storytelling.

The film version of the boardgame Clue tried this with multiple endings to the film. When you went to the movie, you didn't know what ending you'd get. When it came out on video they included all of the endings shown in theaters. I'm not proposing all films should be like this (just like not all books should be like this), but think of our current environment...

Kids and teens are used to 'choosing their own adventure' through video games. They would probably take to this kind of entertainment very well.

Food for thought...

Saturday, July 09, 2005

What do you do when you aren't writing?

I'm taking a break from the grind this weekend...well, at least today. I have one of my feature spec ideas itching at the back of my brain and I feel I'll need to do some work on it before the weekend is over. Still, one whole day with no writing, no obligations, no "to-do's"...I don't know what to do with myself.

So, what do *you* do when you aren't writing?

So far, my best idea is to go hang out at Borders for a bit, maybe take in a movie (but I don't know what to see -- I'm not big on "The Fantastic Four")

What an unusual situation to be in -- all this time, don't know what to do with it.

Wednesday, July 06, 2005

House pains

DO NOT try to write an outline for "House" in 6 days. Don't do it. I'm here to help you, trust me. It isn't worth your life sucked into a black hole.

So, I finished my first draft outline. It needs a few more passes, but I think my story pitch passed the test in class, so I'm optimistic that there's no serious revamping on the horizon. Of course, after the last week I've had, I prefer to remain optimistic.

Meanwhile...still doing bumps and tweaks to the "Lost" spec. Overall, I think it's in pretty good shape.

That's all I've got in the tank tonight. Sorry folks. We'll try to reload tomorrow.

Monday, July 04, 2005

"House" Full Tilt Boogie

I've been researching diseases non-stop for two days. I always knew that writing a spec for a medical drama would be difficult, but it is draining.

I'm trying to bang out a decent outline to use for writing a spec in my current TV writing class. Since I've already written my "Lost" draft it seems an inefficient use of time to focus on that for the class. So, I'm starting anew.

"House" is a particularly difficult show. It is medical mystery and is mostly a procedural, but it focuses more on the lives of its characters than "C.S.I." but far less on their lives than say in "E.R." Trying to find how something could be misdiagnosed a couple of times isn't by itself difficult, just trying to pass the plausibility test that the doctors would miss it twice is tough. Writing a spec about someone who catches a cold but it turns out to be cancer probably wouldn't pass the plausibility test.

So, I'm going a little batty this weekend. Trying to keep it together, but I've already had some disturbing memory lapses this weekend, with my mind focused so hard on this task.

It also doesn't help that the new neighbor downstairs still hasn't finished his renovation and the contractors are working today, pounding and sawing away...

Sunday, July 03, 2005

What is a rewrite?

We all talk about 'rewriting' our scripts. The rewrite is where we spend a lot of time. Second draft. Third draft. Polish. But what *is* a rewrite?

I've been pondering this because maybe I am not actually rewriting. When my draft is finished, I go through it, make notes, cross out dialogue, write new dialogue and create new scenes. Then I go back to my FD file and start acting on my notes: adding, deleting, changing. But this is augmentation, revision, not rewriting...is it? It isn't like I sit down and type an entirely new draft from scratch.

So what *is* rewriting as you do it? What seperates a first draft from a second draft? How much has to be different?

Maybe I need a rewriting class...

Friday, July 01, 2005

Film Friday: End of June roundup

Another month is over, and you all know what that means -- time to look at all of the sequels, remakes and TV to big screen adaptations Hollywood has deemed suitable for rehashing. So, let's check out the deals this month, shall we? (Information courtesy of Done Deals.)

The Brazillian Job -- a followup to "The Italian Job" doesn't have any actors attached as yet. Based on the title, I'm gonna go out on a limb and say they leave Italy.

The Heartbreak Kid -- This is a remake of the 1972 film. This time the Farrelly Brothers will try to add some zany elements.

Piranha -- I've been waiting for this one to pop up. Finally, someone had the sense to remake the 1978 schlock classic. Scantily clad college students plus killer fish equals goldmine!

The Persuaders -- A remake of a 1971 British TV series to star Ben Stiller. What, they haven't gotten Owen Wilson signed up yet??

Swiss Family Robinson -- This one has been kicking around awhile at Disney, but there's a rewrite in the works. I'm sorry, but who could possibly take the place of Tommy Kirk??

Elf 2 -- Okay, so sequel to "Elf"...but so far, no Will Ferrell. Don't count on this one going ahead until they get the Elf himself signed on.

National Treasure 2 -- Obvious sequel, no idea if it will have the original cast, but I'd expect them to be looking for clues in the Statue of Liberty or something...

Underdog -- Live action. Kill me now.

Beyond a Reasonable Doubt -- Remake of Fritz Lang's 1956 film in which a reporter sets himself up to look like he committed a crime in order to prove that circumstantial evidence is dangerous. Yeah, because our court system doesn't have any other problems besides that...

Don't Look Now -- Remake of the 1973 film with Donald Sutherland. Don't know who will be in the new one, but expect it to keep the improvised sex scene. I'm sure it has been added to the script.

The Hitcher -- Remake of the 1986 film. Because there is no such thing as a horror movie that shouldn't be remade...apparently.

A Thousand Clowns -- Remake of the 1965 film about an out of work TV-writer who has to get a real job to keep his 12 year old nephew around. Whatever.

Be With You -- another creepy Japanese film remake (this one from 2004). Although, this one has romance in it and doesn't feature crazy ghost people coming out of walls, so it will probably be cool.

The Bourne Ultimatum -- More about Jason Bourne and based on the novel. Yay! Matt Damon won't sign on until he reads it...

The Untouchables: Capone Rising -- Prequel to "The Untouchables" based around how Al Capone got to where he was before being brought down.

Those are the remakes, sequels and TV adaptations for June. We'll see what Hollywood digs up in July!

Thursday, June 30, 2005

Writing insight of the day

When I am stuck trying to build my story (before I even get to outlining), I have a set of questions I answer for myself. It's like giving myself a pop quiz about the story I'm constructing. Some of the questions are "who is this story about?" (who is the main character?), "What is it the main character wants?", "What is it the main character actually needs?"

By forcing myself to answer these questions (and there's about 50 of them) I get a better understanding of what I'm writing. Certainly I'll find I can't answer them all at once, but the best part is, that if there is a question I can't answer, I know I need to think about that aspect more before I sit down and really outline the script.

Anyway, just one of the methods I use to craft story. Everyone has their own way of doing it...what's yours? What do you do when you struggle with crafting your story?

Tuesday, June 28, 2005

I got an idea!

Okay, so I was over at Lee Goldberg's blog reading his article about how much most Hollywood films suck and why people aren't paying to see them and it got me thinking.

How *could* you get people to go to the movies again?

I have a few ideas...

1. DVD window expands to 12-18 months (or more) after release. The studios have it all backwards -- they need to wait to release a film on DVD rather than rush it out to stores. If people know it will be awhile, it creates demand. Also, have you seen how well Disney's "moratorium" process works? The release a "Platinum" (read: more coveted) animated film on video or DVD (they've been doing this awhile), make it available for about 18 months and then -- *poof*! It's GONE. NO MORE BUYING "The Lion King"...until the *next* time they release it. It builds demand for the film. People are more apt to see in a theater if they know they won't get to see buy it/rent it/see it on TV for many many many months.

2. Create a new film pricing structure. I think the theater pricing model is outdated. Arclight, arguably the best movie theater in L.A. charges up to $14 a ticket during "prime time" film viewing hours. Why? a) no commercials (only movie trailers) before the movie. b) you can pick your seat c) a really generous membership program for frequent movie goers which includes using points on concessions or free tickets d) some movies they offer 21+ screenings -- NO KIDS. Theses are all innovative strategies. Why stop at creative pricing for matinees? Why not charge a premium for certain films? Maybe some "lesser" films should be offered as '2 for 1' bargains. There was a time when double bills were common. Short films should make a comeback and be shown before features. Which leads to my 3rd point...

3. Offer things the average movie goer cannot get by renting or owning the DVD. Sure, some are shown in IMAX, and that's about the best and most unique reason to go out of your way to see a film. But why not offer other perks like: a) offer movie going packages. Some theaters are starting to catch on to "combos" and gift cards like AMC's "night at the movies", which includes 2 tickets, a tub of popcorn and 2 drinks, but theaters need to embrace these kinds of deals. Make it actually a SAVINGS to buy a package (not just that 50 cents it costs to upgrade to a supersize) b) Start upgrading your damn theaters to digital projection already. Yes, it is costly, but hello, people are watching films in digital AT HOME. You want to catch up already?? Digital big screen will attract an audience. c) Multiplexes should offer a "babysitting" theater. Don't want to sit with the kids while watching the latest Pokemon movie? Want to go see something else? Send the to Pokemon, where the lights don't go down entirely and kids are kept in check (sign a waiver of course) and go see a movie in peace. Also, spare the people around you by not having your annoying crying kid piping up every 2 minutes.

Theaters can do a lot to bring people in, but studios have more to do too...

4. Stop making excuses. No one likes to be blamed for your shortcomings. I saw Cinderella Man -- it's a good movie. Face it, your marketing department sucked eggs on promoting the film properly. Stop trying to make it sound "good for us" -- tell me why I'll enjoy seeing it, for crissakes! Studios whine that audiences say they want more family friendly films, but then they don't perform well. Newsflash, just because you slap a 'G' or a 'PG' on it doesn't mean parents will react like automatons and take their children to see it, especially if it looks like torture for the adult. Make GOOD family friendly movies and watch the profits roll in (example: "The Incredibles"). Same rule goes for films for any audience outside men 18-34. Just because a movie has 5 women in it, is labeled "chick flick", does not mean women will flock. Make it a GOOD chick flick and we'll talk.

5. Stop insulting your audience. This is a message to some of my fellow screenwriters: The audience is NOT stupid. If you portray characters which closely represent your audience as being stupid, backward, redneck idiots, it will not do well. People will allow themselves to be poked fun at, if it is genuinely good natured. If you are trying to sell a political agenda, red and blue staters can smell it. Tell a good story and everybody wins.

These are just some of my new ideas for getting people back to the theaters. Your thoughts??

Getting physical

As becoming as I look in my admittedly outdated photo (not *that* outdated, just...not the most current), I find I need to refocus my efforts to lose weight, get into good shape, etc.

So I'm seeing a trainer tomorrow.

Hoo-boy. I don't know if I'm ready for this or not, but considering how much time I've spent recently in front of a PC and not on a treadmill, I think it's time.

This is just the 'consultation' tomorrow. If I like the place/trainer/etc, I can choose to go as often as I like, when I like -- no preset number of sessions, etc. The best part -- they claim that one session a week (plus some work on your own) is all you need to get on the path to wellness. I already have a Bally club membership, so I am not looking to spend too much extra dough, but just as with screenwriting, I find discipline in exercise to be helpful. Setting goals and working to achieve them. Sure, you can fall off the wagon occassionally (like, watch a movie instead of write, eat a Krispy Kreme instead of a carrot), but as long as you keep those deviances to a minimum, the goal can be met.

Although no Krispy Kremes. They are evil incarnate. Sweet, sweet evil.

Saturday, June 25, 2005

Deadline freakout

5 days. I've got 5 days to get this spec in decent shape to submit for the ABC Fellowship. Not only that, I need to be coherent on the application. I need to be eloquent and profound. It's too much!

I haven't gotten any of the feedback from my "tough love" friends either. I've cajoled but nada. So, I'll be revising today with some good notes, but probably not a comprehensive set of notes.

The Artful Writer now has a forum in operation. I recommend dropping by and registering. I registered there yesterday and the place is already hoppin'. If I'm in the chat room, I'm TeelaJBrown. Otherwise, you'll see my real name.

Hey, maybe we can schedule a chat sometime?? Okay, enough procrastination...

...or not. My sister just came in the room and deemed it necessary for us to get manicures and pedicures this morning. Dangit, I wasn't ready to go out in public. Now I have to shower and that's 2 hours I'll lose on revising. I am making art woman!! I do not need pretty toenails to make art!

Now she's testy. To the shower I go. See you later.

Friday, June 24, 2005

Radio silence

Sorry it's been so quiet this week. I've been slammed with work, HOA stuff and tweaking my draft. So far the notes have been constructive and overall the feedback is pretty positive. Of course, so far I've given it to people who are kind. I'm waiting to hear from the 'tough crowd' I've solicited for feedback.

Criticism is hard. I always have to remind myself that it isn't personal. I have asked these people to give me their honest feedback and notes so I can make my work better. Still, sometimes it feels like genius to idiot in less than five seconds once someone opens their mouth.

Between genius and idiot, I think I'm floating along as mortal. I'll settle for that.

Monday, June 20, 2005

Finished!

Last night I finished my first draft for my "Lost" spec script. It came in at 52 pages. Clearly I have some work to do on the second draft, but what a great feeling to finish this weekend, when I had hoped to finish. I had to push through about 21 pages or so yesterday, but the pages came (helped by listening to 'Light Classical' on my Dish Network radio dial).

Now to register and rewrite. Only 11 days until the ABC deadline!

Sunday, June 19, 2005

Spec progress

Just a quick note, because I'm still writing tonight, trying to reach the finish line. I am almost done with Act IV. I am on page 45 with 12-15 pages left to go. I've already written about 12 pages today and I won't finish until I can get to the end. Then the rewriting starts.

I'm not sure who I'm going to have read this thing and provide comments back. I'll need feedback quickly, since I'm trying to get it in good enough shape to submit for the ABC Fellowship. The deadline for that is the end of the month.

Still, feeling good with the progress today. Dang, I need to do laundry...

Saturday, June 18, 2005

Book Meme: My Turn

Rick tagged me with the book meme that's going around the blogs like a virus. Okay, fine, I'll bite.

Total number of books owned: I think I'm at around 300 right now. I shed about 100 books or so between my last two moves, so I could be down to 250. I haven't counted in awhile and books are like weeds a new one pops up every time I think I've got them all.

Last book I bought: Crafty Screenwriting by one of my favorite bloggers Alex Epstein.

Last book I read: Besides the one I just mentioned, I read a lot of screenwriting books. The last non-fiction book I read was Down and Out in the Magic Kingdom by Cory Doctorow (frequent contributor to Boing Boing.

Five books that mean a lot to me:

The Number of the Beast by Robert Heinlein. This was my first real sci-fi book given to me by my father. After all of the other Heinlein books I've read, this is the one I always come back to, simply because it was my first.

Snow Crash by Neal Stephenson. It's actually a tough call between this one and Cryptonomicon which I also love, but again, I go with sentimentality. My first real boyfriend gave me Snow Crash and it blew my mind (this after he had already turned me on to Pournelle and Niven books). I loan out Snow Crash often -- I just never get it back. I've bought at least five copies of this book since I first read it. I'm currently without a copy.

Mort by Terry Pratchett. I had no idea how funny fantasy could be. I had read The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy and I knew sci-fi could be funny (this book almost makes the cut for the top 5). Interestingly enough, I was turned on to Mort by Colin Baker at a Dr. Who convention. Yes, in my very young years I attended Dr. Who conventions and took book reading advice from actors. Still, this one was a great one and the entire series of Discworld novels are to this day one of my prized possessions (which continues to grow since the man is still writing them). Mort is actually the 4th Discworld book, but I still recommend it as the best introduction to the series.

Writing Screenplays that Sell by Michael Hauge. This was the first screenwriting book I bought which made me feel I could actually be a writer. I was further encouraged when I listened to him speak at the very first Screenwriting Expo in 2002.

Anne of Green Gables by Lucy Maud Montgomery. It may seem corny to you, but I was already a voracious reader when I discovered the Anne Shirley books. I would say that prior to seeing Anne of Green Gables on PBS (which, tragically, may have its funding cut because they can't seem to stop serving a liberal agenda -- okay, I'll stop) I had already fallen in love with this character and the story. It made me want to tell stories.

Hmmm, who should I tag with this meme... 5 others, the rules say.

E.B. Langton
Kid Sis
Joshua James
Moviequill
Moses

Anybody else can jump in too!

Wednesday, June 15, 2005

Hollywood Momentum

This should provide some new entertainment. Let's learn all about the assistant life!

(Hat tip: Defamer)

Bomb Threat at WGA?

Defamer had the breaking news. Turns out it was a hoax (not surprising).

I wonder how many times people have been talking about films (as bombs)and it has been mistaken as a terror threat...

Miscellaneous

I've been pretty stressed out lately because of my job situation. Things got better today. Can't really discuss it, but I think I'm close to knowing my fate and it is a huge relief.

Even better, I finished Act III last night. I need to do a rewrite on those last four pages, but still...

I'm 75% done with my first draft! And that's reason to celebrate.

May not be posting tomorrow -- busy day and I plan to write Act IV tomorrow night.

See you Friday.

Tuesday, June 14, 2005

Coming attractions

I had no idea that I'd get this kind of response regarding my political leanings. However, I am happy to continue the conversation. I should have a pretty lengthy post regarding this topic later tonight. I wish I could have it done sooner, but today is THE BIG DAY at work -- the contract is signed and we are meeting with the new outsourcing company. I'll be in meetings all day.

So check back later tonight or tomorrow for my explanation of my politics and more.

One last note: Act III is almost complete. I have two scenes to go. Of course, this isn't the end. I still have Act IV and the Tag to write. Still, I'm on page 35 and just knowing I only have about 20-25 pages to go is pretty satisifying. Act II was disturbingly short so I had to go back and flesh it out a bit from what I had in my outline, which I had not expected. Fortunately, that little detour didn't really slow me down. It's all good.

Monday, June 13, 2005

Odious people

Never become numb to the ugliness in the world. Despicable grandparents charged with sexual assault. The grandfather raped his 13 year old granddaughter while the grandmother merely said she "got what she deserved."

Blog stuff

Still updating the blogroll. Since I use the service to track blogs that have been recently updated, it isn't seperated out like I'd like it to be. Here's the rule of thumb (for now): political blogs on top, california blogs in the middle, screenwriting blogs on the bottom half. The very bottom of the list is the 'probation zone'. Post or you're toast. If you are in the probation zone for more than 2 months (meaning, you haven't updated your blog) you will be dropped off the blogroll. I have added anyone who currently links to me or has requested a link. As should be obvious, I am not responsible for any of the material on any of the linked blogs in the blogroll. Read them at your own risk or pleasure.

If you want on the blogroll, please be sure to ask. All I ask in return is a reciprocal link. Hey, thems the rules of this here blog-o-verse.

Seriously considering a different layout since I've grown tired of the green header. If I ever get any time to play, I'll see if I can design my own. Someday I might even be able to move off blogspot, but don't count on it being any time soon.

Sunday, June 12, 2005

Half done!

I finished Act II yesterday. I'm pushing forward today. I think I'll need to go back and add a scene to Act II, but I'm focusing on moving forward. If I stop to rewrite anything I'll get stuck there, analyzing what has already been written. I don't want to deal with that until I finish the 4th Act and the Tag.

I'm definitely in a better mood today. Reaching a goal will perk you up. Plus, I feel like a real Californian today. I woke up to the earthquake this morning -- my first that I've actually felt. Since it wasn't very powerful here, it was more exciting than scary. Did you guys feel it? How did you react?

Friday, June 10, 2005

Alone

It's really gratifying to see the little blog community that has formed in the last few months -- the few of us who band together through comments and mutual links as fellow screenwriters or aspiring screenwriters. In my daily struggles and frustrations I no longer feel alone.

And yet, in another way, I am as alone as I have always been. The one thing I have noticed jumping from one screenwriting blog to another is that I am decidedly different in one thing -- not gender, or style or genre. I am a conservative Republican.

There, I said it. I hope that having admitted my political affiliations (which should have been rather obvious from my other blog links) that you will not deem to dismiss me or my work. I do not wish to alienate those of you whom I have met in the last few months. But I do feel as if I am a minority in this community. I am always happy to see when other writers release their political frustrations, but I refrain from comment or debate simply because I do not wish to be considered for my politics first. I consider myself a writer, period. I have no political agenda nor do I wish to convince you or convert you. I am not an evangelist nor am I a fundamentalist. I'm a conservative.

But I do stand alone among you. I do not want pity or sympathy. I know my odds in this town where I stay mostly closeted in my political views, for fear of facing a backlash. I'm the one smiling and nodding wordlessly when confronted with anti-Bush rhetoric at gatherings. And this sometimes makes me lonely.

Tonight I'm lonely. I just want to tell great stories. I want to write without agenda but not be judged by anyone else's. Is that asking too much? Can I attend a class or a social gathering and not be subjected to the snarky or acidic commentary on the politics of our country? Apparently not.

I've thought a lot about whether to address this on my blog. If you search through the archives, you will find that I was passionate during the election, but my focus shifted after the first of the year. I found the truth of my blog, what it meant for me and it wasn't politics. There are plenty of other great blogs to visit and read about this right or left political viewpoint. The number of blogs about struggling writers is small and I am happy to be in the midst of those who also share their thoughts, feelings and actions in the writing world.

I think I'm also just feeling moody tonight. Feeling like I won't finish my spec by month's end as I let the stresses around me close in. Hopefully I'll be able to shut them out this weekend and focus on crafting pages.

I appreciate your patronage. I appreciate your blogs, if you have them. When I discover another great writer, I add them to my blogroll. I'm barely keeping up these last few days. If I've missed you, let me know. It's nice to feel not so alone.

Wednesday, June 08, 2005

Time

It's one of those days when you can hear the tic-tic-tic of the clock as the day soldiers on toward a close. The office is quiet. Ocassionally I hear someone's voice drift down the hallway, but overall there is silence and the palpable feeling of worry and dread.

People are interviewing for jobs this week, trying to stay with BUC (Big Unnamed Company) and avoid the uncertain future of being sent off to a vendor company. We are all interviewing against each other, so conversations are short and do not dwell too much on our current situation other than to note how much it sucks. As I walk past my employees I can see them clicking through job search websites. They don't even try to hide it anymore. I can't blame them for looking, and they can't blame me for my curiosity.

After my own intervew three hours ago, I had the perfect opportunity to get some writing done, but I just couldn't shake off the heavy malaise that surrounds us all, not even to do what I love.

So now I'm blogging. I needed to do *something*.

My outline is done. My spec is started and Act I is finished on the first draft. I'll work my way through Act II tonight and hopefully I can get a few scenes written. Optimistically I'd like to see me finish Act III by next week. Trying to set the bar high but within reason. I won't start class again for three weeks, so I have to use the time between now and then to push ahead, especially if I want a ~~pretty decent~~ awesome draft to submit for the ABC/Disney Fellowship.

Phone rang. Nope, they hung up. Even phone calls are in short supply today. I need to call the dentist to schedule my cleaning.

I'm taking suggestions for what to spec after I finish this one. Note: I am less inclined to spec CSIs, Law & Orders, or The O.C. Everything else is in bounds.

I'd like to finish another TV spec before breaking a new feature or rewriting my first screenplay. At least I've got two TV samples to send out that way while I keep writing other stuff.

Ugh, I need a nap.

Tuesday, June 07, 2005

Lost fans!

You've probably already seen it, but I thought I'd link to it here: The Oceanic Air homepage. I recommend clicking around the site, particularly on the home page -- there is an area which can be dragged to see a distress message and a script page.

Looks like they write "Lost" in 6 Acts! Good info when writing a spec...

Sunday, June 05, 2005

Movia mania

For the first time in a very long time, I saw a film every day this weekend. It was great.

Friday night I saw Lords of Dogtown which if you've seen the documentary is more of the same. If you haven't seen the documentary, I recommend it as I also recommend this film. The young actors, most are 'unknowns' or 'hardly knowns' are compelling. Catherine Hardwicke is a fine director and Stacey Peralta wrote a servicable if not exactly a gripping script. There's plenty of drama and tension to keep you wondering how it will all end, even if you have seen the doc. It's easy to forget the real history as you watch these boys go from scrapping along Venice Beach to fame on the skateboarding circuit.

Saturday night I took in the first film of the Cinespia season. On Saturday nights during the summer (this summer it is every Saturday) they show films on the side of the mausoleum at the Hollywood Forever cemetary. Before the show started, they informed us that we were surrounded by the remains of 95,000 people (good thing it wasn't a zombie movie on the bill). They showed Twentieth Century which is widely considered to be the birth of the screwball comedy. Starring John Barrymore and Carole Lombard the film is quick and smart and still resonant today, 70 years later. Seeing a movie out under the stars surrounded by thousands of other film lovers is a real treat. Pack a picnic dinner, show up early and pay 10 bucks each. It's well worth it.

Today I saw Cinderella Man which I found to be a well done 'feel good' film that makes me want to call my grandparents and apologize to them for having to live through the Great Depression. Russell Crowe is fantastic, there's no two ways about it. I think Akiva Goldsman cranked out some cheesy lines (it was hard to hear Renee Zellweger say 'You're the champion of my heart' without snorting my diet coke all over the seats, but somehow I restrained myself). The boxing scenes are really vibrant and exciting, a credit to Howard for keeping them constantly in motion without using 'shaky cam'. I suppose critics will call it the first 'Oscar contender' of the year, and they are probably right. In any case, it was a good film which I enjoyed.

So, a good weekend, and I got some writing done (I know, can you believe it). I have phone interviews tomorrow. Wish me luck.

Thursday, June 02, 2005

The Day Job

So, as previously mentioned, I work at BIG UNNAMED COMPANY. I've worked for BUC for 9 years, most of that time in Florida, but the last 2.5 years here in L.A. BIG UNNAMED COMPANY is outsourcing most of the IT department (and if you are up on current events, you might even be able to guess what this BUC is) and so I face an uncertain future. Fortunately, I got scheduled for an interview for a position still within BUC and not at the outsourcing company. If I don't secure a position here, I will most likely end up working for the vendor. The question is, do I still want to be doing this kind of work? I'm a supervisor of the computer help desk and I have to admit, my job isn't really all that strenuous. I have time to write in the evenings. Still, do I stay on this path or do I take a significant paycut and start at the bottom of the latter in 'the business'. I hate being faced with these kinds of dilemmas.

Spec script is written through the end of Act I. I'll be writing Act II tonight.

Wednesday, June 01, 2005

From the comments

Here's a comment posted anonymously on a previous post:

do you use people you know as characters in your writing? are there people you won't use as characters (peole with certain relationships)?

do you write them as you know them, or do you change them for what you're writing?

I often use attributes of people I know in my writing. I've written characters who resemble in part relatives or friends of mine. I would never try to copy someone in real life, because I think that is unfair, unless I were making a biographical film. However, I think that attributes of that person (mannerisms, quirks, behaviors) are fair game and I use them often. I always make sure to use those attributes to enhance a character, not completely define him/her. I also make sure that I'm not demeaning anyone I know with the use of that characteristic.

Does anyone else have an opinion on this topic?

You are all priceless.

Seriously, I feel like doing a 'Mastercard' commercial right now. Cost of UCLA writing class $350. Copy of Lew Hunter's book: $14. Being told by actual writers to improve your writing and forget worrying about your grade: Priceless.

I incorporated a couple of the minor suggestions from the instructor but I have basically decided that I'm happy with my outline and have started writing pages. I hope to have the first draft finished by next week. I'm already 20% there (hmm, maybe I need to steal David's completion bar for my spec).

I appreciate all of the feedback, encouragement and advice. I respect working writers immensely. I also respect my fellow students and newcomers, because this ain't as easy as it looks.

Enough with the love, back to the writing.