MovieBytes - Screenwriting Contests & Markets Online

Thanks to Irin (MessageID: 62803)

Wed, 19 Jun 2013 06:40:48 GMT

Author: bill Johnston

Based on your recommendation of Bill Pace, I contacted him and he agreed to read and review one of my scripts. When I mentioned your name, he gave me a discount. I cannot say enough positive things about his work. He is witty, funny and really knows his stuff. He gave me excellent detailed notes, made great and frequent humorous comments on the RTF version of the script and then we SKYPED to go over the recommended changes and any other ideas or questions I had. I just wanted to thank you for bringing him to my attention. He is one of the best!

Nice job by MB regulars JG Edwards and Philip Sedgwick- (MessageID: 62802)

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 22:19:35 GMT

Author: Heather Hughes

Congrats James and Scott!!!

Same to Mike Hanson for Writers on the Storm Top Ten Finish (MessageID: 62801)

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 22:18:27 GMT

Author: Heather Hughes

Congrats Mike!!!

Same to Mike Hanson for Writers on the Storm Top Ten Finish (MessageID: 62800)

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 12:13:27 GMT

Author: Mike Hanson

Thanks, Scott. You're always rooting for other people. Very cool. And it was fun watching your script move almost to the very top at Filmmakers. Unlike many contests, where you find out where you placed and that's that, at Writers on the Storm the top ten get coverage. So I'm looking forward to that.

Nice job by MB regulars JG Edwards and Philip Sedgwick- (MessageID: 62799)

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 08:19:35 GMT

Author: Philip Sedgwick

Thank you, Scott and James. Story Pros has always been a good one, and for whatever reason, I do well there. Next time though I'll probably only have two in the running. For those who have never considered this contest, it's a good one. Here's to future successes for all.

Nice job by MB regulars JG Edwards and Philip Sedgwick- (MessageID: 62798)

Sun, 16 Jun 2013 18:09:30 GMT

Author: James Edwards

Thanks, Scott. More than anything, I hope it gets me some agent/studio reads. It's taken years, but finally -- a sign of progress. That Phil Sedgwick is a phenomenon, though. There was one point in the StoryPros running where he had -- what was it? -- three or four screenplays making progress. Incredible. The StoryPros contest overall has been crackerjack as always -- right on time, quick to respond, and apparently staffed with excellent readers. Good job.

Same to Mike Hanson for Writers on the Storm Top Ten Finish (MessageID: 62797)

Sun, 16 Jun 2013 15:18:22 GMT

Author: Scott Aiman

Nice job by MB regulars JG Edwards and Philip Sedgwick- (MessageID: 62796)

Sun, 16 Jun 2013 14:52:37 GMT

Author: Scott Aiman

placing in the recently concluded Story Pros Awards. Same to anyone else who hit the winners board.

Great article on the money side of the business... (MessageID: 62795)

Sat, 15 Jun 2013 11:24:31 GMT

Author: Script Dude

Because a Fool and His Money are Soon Parted... by Marvin V. Acuna Some say it's the root of all evil... Some say it can't buy you love or happiness... "It" is not something that's talked about much in the screenwriting world, but it's tremendously important. So in this article I want to talk to you about money, and what it means to screenwriters in Hollywood. Here is a brief story that will hopefully give you a realistic and practical view on money, as it relates to writers in the business of show business. At the top of 2008, a screenwriter's spec script that I along with a major agency represented was introduced to an executive for a major production company. This particular entity wielded significant clout at the studio. The executive responded favorably to the spec and requested a sit down with the writer. About a month later, the executive phoned to inform us that an idea had developed internally and they felt the aforementioned writer would be ideal to execute. They wished to discuss the idea, and a meeting was immediately set. Following the meeting the writer was asked to draft a detailed treatment on how he would execute the idea. It should be noted this was to be done on spec. The treatment was developed extensively with the guidance and direction of the executive. There were many drafts. Every draft was written on spec. Four months into 2008, the executive was thoroughly satisfied with the final draft... of the treatment. At this point he committed to enthusiastically introduce the treatment and the writer's spec sample to his boss. You read that correctly. The boss had yet to read the screenwriter's sample. Not uncommon. A few weeks later the executive rang to share the wonderful news: his boss was on board. With the boss' blessing, a meeting was scheduled to pitch the studio executives. It should be noted that the screenwriter had yet to meet the boss. And compensation had not been discussed. About ten people were in attendance at the pitch meeting, but the boss did not attend. He simply called ahead and expressed his strong feelings for the project. The pitch was executed in just under fifteen minutes, followed by a few questions from the most senior executive and the meeting concluded. About an hour later, we received THE call. The writer nailed the pitch, he was hired. Finally, deal time. I can honestly say that to use the phrase negotiations would be a distortion of the truth. The studio simply told us what they would pay. Take it or leave it. We took it. A low six figure deal closed about three months later. If you didn't know, studios do not pay until the agreement is fully executed. For further clarity, they don't pay all at once. They pay in steps. Baby steps tied to delivery of the draft(s). Are you following me? We're almost seven months into 2008 and the screenwriter has yet to see one red cent. Finally, after badgering accounting at the studio, the first check arrives. Without revealing the exact number of the total deal, for simplicity let's take a nice round number. Let's use $100,000 as the figure to represent full payment and do a brief breakdown. The studios pay a percentage upon signature of the agreement and a percentage at commencement of the draft. Other steps follow. Payment on delivery of first draft, commencement of draft two, delivery of draft two, and in some cases a polish may be included. Traditionally, payment tiers range between fifteen to twenty percent. For simplicity, let's assume the studio used its might and would not budge off of fifteen percent to trigger the first series of payments. Keep in mind, he who can walk from the deal has... the power. Therefore for this brief example, a check totaling $30,000 for execution of agreement and commencement of script would be delivered by the studio. Be aware that agents (10%), managers (10%), and attorney's (5%) commission on the gross, not the net. Uncle Sam does too! (There was chart here that broke down all the fees but it didn't copy over to this post) But the bottom line is.... SCREENWRITER KEEPS $15,500 There you have it. Almost eleven months later, the screenwriter celebrates with a cool $15K for 2008. Oh yes, one more payroll payment to make. It will be the newest member of your team... the WGA. You MUST become a guild member upon entering your first deal (spec or work for hire) with a signatory company. All studios are signatory. Yay! As you can see a six figure deal isn't quite a six figure pay day. And payment itself can be delayed for some time. There are a few lessons one can glean from this: �Don't quit your day job after your first sale or gig! It'll be tempting, but don't. Not immediately. �Schedule time to write NOW. You must MASTER the discipline of scheduling time to write while you have a day job and... a life. And more importantly, before your first sale or writer for hire gig. I promise you it will come in handy. �Reward yourself, but don't go nuts. A screenwriter I know treated himself to an ergonomic executive chair for his writing station. He'd been eyeing it for years. �Save the rest. You never know when you'll be hired again or when you will sell a script again. In summary, the screenwriter is no different then the entrepreneur who's enthusiastic about and committed to building their business. Listen: It takes time, patience, discipline, and strategy to build a business that generates revenue AND, more importantly, produces profits. Hear me: My intention was to illuminate an area in screenwriting that is rarely discussed, if ever. It's not to frighten you, but to inform you... to empower you with knowledge. Because as James Madison, Father of the Constitution, so eloquently stated: "Knowledge will forever govern ignorance; and a people who mean to be their own governors must arm themselves with the power which knowledge gives."

Fantasy screenplays, on a comeback? (MessageID: 62794)

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 15:15:52 GMT

Author: Lady Script

A big fantasy franchise on its way mate! Found out that Emma Watson will be staring in Queen of the Tearling, an elite fine upcoming adaptation of Erika Johansen?s book of the same title of course. The final script is still in development, most likely. But this one will make a dear film. And good news is that Watson will reteam, obviously, with Harry Potter elite producer David Heyman for its core development. Great! Mates, start writing your fantasy scripts or re-write your existing ones.

Shoreline Scripts Deadline. (MessageID: 62793)

Fri, 14 Jun 2013 09:32:43 GMT

Author: Shoreline Scripts

Hi, I just wanted to post to let you know that the 30th June is the last day to enter your screenplay into 2013's Shoreline Scripts Screenwriting Competition. Last years winner sold his screenplay to Christopher Figg, producer of: Hellraiser, We Need to Talk About Kevin, Dog Soldiers & many more. His IMDB: http://www.imdb.com/name/nm0276541/?ref_=fn_al_nm_1 We have Oscar, Cannes & BAFTA winning judges, not to mention over �9000 in prizes to be won. We hope you consider entering. 2012's Winner's Interviews: http://www.shorelinescripts.com/shoreline-scripts-screenwriting-competition-the-winners-videos/ TO ENTER: http://www.shorelinescripts.com/shoreline-scripts-screenwriting-competition/feature/ Thanks, Steve. contact@shorelinescripts.com

Is Bill wrong?QUESTION FOR BILL WC MARTEL: WRITER OF" Secrets of Action Screenwriting (MessageID: 62792)

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 14:43:56 GMT

Author: James Edwards

BRRRRAAAAPPP-P-puh! "Kat Lady/Mick Lo/Mary/Toni Mack/etc./etc./etc. is back. Don't feed the troll."

50 years from now, where will the EVOLUTION of hollywood films and scripts be? LEARN NOT TO SPEAK LIKE YOU ARE AN EXPERT ON SCRIPTS AND FILMS.YOU ARE JUST A DUST IN THE STORM OF THE WORLD CINEMA, AND THAT INCLUDES HOLLYWOOD!!!!!!!!!!!! (MessageID: 62791)

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 14:42:58 GMT

Author: James Edwards

I have seen the light! And a voice spoke from the light! And the voice said: "Kat Lady/Mick Lo/Mary/Toni Mack/etc./etc./etc. is back. Don't feed the troll."

Is Bill wrong?QUESTION FOR BILL WC MARTEL: WRITER OF" Secrets of Action Screenwriting (MessageID: 62790)

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 12:59:21 GMT

Author: Howard Cheif

Mr. Martell, I was reading the Fast and Furious script. The writing is bland? Why? But the story is very good to excellent. But the script lacked life. I don't think a script needs "action writing". It's a script written by the direct(indirectly, lol. ) Is your book useful then? That's the director's job. Why would a screenwriter spend 12 to 20 pages to write a car chase in Hong Kong and China when you can put an note" car chase"...and the director and his team will figure it out and draw it out with his artist and pre-tools? In Fast and Furious script, very little effort was used to write the action. But on screen it rocks!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! So who needs action screenwriters in the future? You ever read action script from Hong Kong. They don't write the action. It's a waste o time. And why waste 20 pages to describe karate fight in a karate epic script in the future ? Just put, "fight in dojo on 678th floor of spaceship". And then the director and stuntmen and lead, they will give you a cool fight but rehearsing it. Did you read the script for Kung Fu films. They have nothing to do with your book or what your preach. Just type" fight in bar, fight at 6th and 12th, fight on bridge, fight in helicopter ...and they fight" Please, keep the secrets for 1980s film where they made these silly films. I liked them , but not really.

50 years from now, where will the EVOLUTION of hollywood films and scripts be? LEARN NOT TO SPEAK LIKE YOU ARE AN EXPERT ON SCRIPTS AND FILMS.YOU ARE JUST A DUST IN THE STORM OF THE WORLD CINEMA, AND THAT INCLUDES HOLLYWOOD!!!!!!!!!!!! (MessageID: 62789)

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 12:17:31 GMT

Author: Howard Cheif

Lastly, the future of Hollywood rests with the power of a new generation. The upcoming executives are coming from Facebook and Youtube. We have seen it all. Don't bore us. How many SFX does it take to bore us? How many good boring stories have we to read? It's over. Old age is coming. Say goodbye to Hollywood. We seen it all. And that SFX in the new star wars? Concept arts and new SFX, boring. We need a major change. And please don't remake King Kong or The French Connection or X-Files(boring). Video games and Tiger Woods and NBA are much more entertaining.

movie "The PURGE" success proves why Readers like Zull,BitterScript Reader is 100% wrong and too lost in his puny world of reading, it will make 40 mil this week (MessageID: 62788)

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 12:10:17 GMT

Author: Howard Cheif

Ha ha, Zull is really wrong. The script for THE PURGE 2 AND 3 have been written and Purge WILL BE MADE. WHETHER YOU LIKE IF OR NOT ZULL (?), YOU DON'T KNOW SHIT. And please stop acting like a nerd for Trigger Street. And scripts and readers are a dime 4 dozen. So don't lie to us. So don't try to brainwash us. WE CAN THINK FOR OURSELVES. WE DON'T NEED YOU. YOU ARE NOTHING IN HOLLYWOOD.

50 years from now, where will the EVOLUTION of hollywood films and scripts be? LEARN NOT TO SPEAK LIKE YOU ARE AN EXPERT ON SCRIPTS AND FILMS.YOU ARE JUST A DUST IN THE STORM OF THE WORLD CINEMA, AND THAT INCLUDES HOLLYWOOD!!!!!!!!!!!! (MessageID: 62787)

Thu, 13 Jun 2013 12:02:41 GMT

Author: Howard Cheif

We were having a drink. And were discussing what will Hollywood look like in the future. You see, the hoary farts of Hollywood are trying to hold on to the dominion of imagination and their silly heirloom that is being defied by time and the new breed of executives. But they are deteriorating miserably. This is what the old farts of Hollywood are asking and saying: Will we see less of films like Lincoln and 42 and The Color Purple.? A Will we not see more lavish Super Hero Films? Eg. Justice Leaque combinations with other superheroes Is this correct? If you take all the money spend to make these Super Hero films, you might discern the cure to Cancer. A Will Robert Rodriguez or James Cameron have a crack at rebooting Batman? A There will be less single-minded Avatar-like projects ? A Four or five Avatar-like film will flop in a row. Is it over then for Hollywood? A Never, Ubisoft Video Game Developer will one day pride itself, never, to be a key player in Hollywood? A Why are video games : Watch Dogs, Far Cry and Rabbids, being turned into movies? A These will be flops: Hollywood planning to remake Fantastic Four ? part 1, 2, 3? A It does not matter if you are talented. The talented will find it easy to get their movies in movie theatres ? Will the high cost of marketing movie keep declining with Facebook and Youtube? A When will Hollywood come crashing? How many more Avatar must we watch? How many Fast And Furious must we watch? That answer is that just like me and those timeworn great filmmakers IN Hollywood, we cannot answer that question. Because we are getting old and our time is up. It?s over, when we are 100 years old, cinema will over. Even some classic film from Hollywood are eroding with history, their magic is slowly dying in the dust. C****** recent films are lacking. --------------------------------------------------- ==================== ======================= ============================ The new generation will astonish us and will take Hollywood to a level that is better and more entertaining than we can imagine. At the age of 20 we write some cool shit. At the age 40 we get married. At the age of 45 we become famous(lol). Then at 60 years old we look back and appreciate that it?s just a silly movie. I am not watching Citizen Kane again. The director said the same thing. Bored of it. As Nirvana said?give us something new and fresh, because as we get old our brain rots and our imagination ceases in space. As we get old , we cannot imagine what the future of Hollywood holds. Because we are dying of old age. Respect that. So what? Life is life. Hollywood is impulsive and its fused with youth , risks and rule-breakers.

can producers use the CIA- PRISM -like software to catch script traders and illegal script attainment? (MessageID: 62786)

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 22:38:16 GMT

Author: David Barkley

At least.

can producers use the CIA- PRISM -like software to catch script traders and illegal script attainment? (MessageID: 62785)

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 19:34:09 GMT

Author: Robert Blacka

Funny how sometimes his posts are interesting and informative, yet other times inflammatory and irrational. Could he be... bipolar?

list, 50 dollars or less script notes, for the aspiring screenwriters, please add to the list (MessageID: 62784)

Tue, 11 Jun 2013 17:57:42 GMT

Author: Santa Sierra

scriptchix has good prices.

can producers use the CIA- PRISM -like software to catch script traders and illegal script attainment? (MessageID: 62783)

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 13:21:52 GMT

Author: James Edwards

Hmmm. Sorry about that. I shoulda knowed.

confession of a Screenwriter "going broke and becoming a bag lady" (MessageID: 62782)

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 13:20:38 GMT

Author: James Edwards

Howard... is that you? Or did you have an operation and morph into... Kat Lady? Whatever. At least screenwriting keeps us off drugs and alcohol and off the streets. At this point in the deterioration of the national personality into that of a massively overweight leech attached to everything that would destroy him if not for the government propping him up, being a screenwriter on one's own terms seems like not-a-half-bad thing. Then again, being a bag lady is better than that... But you go ahead and badmouth it all you want. After all, it's a free country (if you're registered with the right party and don't make political waves anyhow...).

"The Purge" thriller. Getting good revews. don't miss it!!! best microbugeted script,movie ever! very enjoyable and thrilling (MessageID: 62781)

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 13:17:19 GMT

Author: David Barkley

Kat Lady/Mick Lo/Mary/Toni Mack/etc./etc./etc. is back. Don't feed the troll.

movie "The PURGE" success proves why Readers like Zull,BitterScript Reader is 100% wrong and too lost in his puny world of reading, it will make 40 mil this week (MessageID: 62780)

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 13:16:50 GMT

Author: David Barkley

Kat Lady/Mick Lo/Mary/Toni Mack/etc./etc./etc. is back. Don't feed the troll.

confession of a Screenwriter "going broke and becoming a bag lady" (MessageID: 62779)

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 13:16:21 GMT

Author: David Barkley

Kat Lady/Mick Lo/Mary/Toni Mack/etc./etc./etc. is back. Don't feed the troll.

can producers use the CIA- PRISM -like software to catch script traders and illegal script attainment? (MessageID: 62778)

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 13:15:39 GMT

Author: David Barkley

Kat Lady/Mick Lo/Mary/Toni Mack/etc./etc./etc. is back. Don't feed the troll.

can producers use the CIA- PRISM -like software to catch script traders and illegal script attainment? (MessageID: 62777)

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 13:14:26 GMT

Author: James Edwards

This is all about the American govt. and people who have influence/sway with the govt. Conceivably, if a movie producer had connections with the Administration, they could use those connections to find out who was pilfering their in-production scripts. But that would be like using an atomic bomb to stop a bank robbery: a wee bit of overkill. The real question is, How radioactive is the 1984-like behavior of the current Administration, and to a lesser extent its predecessor, (who helped set the apparatus in motion anyway), going to be? IMO, anyone making use of govt. high tech surveillance to follow a vendetta of any sort shd. be brought up on felony charges. But if nobody cares, if the media won't touch the issue because it favors the party in charge, if what's going on remains murky and unprovable-beyond-a-doubt, then I suspect the ultimate rotten fruit of that surveillance is going to rain down on all of our heads for a long time to come. Let alone if there's a real national emergency -- with the economy, or another 9/11 style attack. Then this issue is going to become really dangerous.

can producers use the CIA- PRISM -like software to catch script traders and illegal script attainment? (MessageID: 62776)

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 11:30:21 GMT

Author: Howard Cheif

It is not impossible to read the new Superman or Star Wars or Nolan or Planet of the Ape or Avatar scripts... Key producers are reading them of course, meaning they can take screenshots or pictures and "special " post online under a private link. Because producers are human and power corrupts. Are they doing that? What proof do you have they are not doing that? Can producers come after you if you find those links and then exchange emails of top Superhero scripts for eg. the new Avengers or Spiderman or Thor 2? Read this first Can some powerful producers in Hollywood get access to PRISM: "Edward Snowden, a former CIA employee working for the US National Security Agency, reveals details of the organisation's surveillance programme. A whistleblower in quotes "I will be made to suffer for my actions, [but] I will be satisfied if the federation of secret law ... and irresistible executive powers that rule the world ... are revealed even for an instant.? "Yes, I could be rendered by the CIA ... or any of the third-party partners. They work closely with a number of other nations. Or they could pay off the Triads ... That is a concern I will live with for the rest of my life, however long that happens to be.? "I am not afraid, because this is the choice I?ve made. The only thing I fear is the harmful effects on my family, who I won?t be able to help any more.? "I had an authority to wiretap anyone, from you or your accountant to a federal judge or even the President, if I had a personal email..." http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/americas/video-former-cia-worker-edward-snowden-on-nsa-prism-datamining-operation-8652451.html

confession of a Screenwriter "going broke and becoming a bag lady" (MessageID: 62775)

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 11:19:25 GMT

Author: Howard Cheif

Why does screenwriting suck in women and men who refuse to grow up. I know one lady who talk and talk on his webpage for over twelve years, but sold nothing or did nothing getting the script sold. Do nothing. Just blog and blog and tweet and tweet about the same shit over and over. We counted over 33 articles where she is still working on it. Woking on what? If it takes ten years to do anything, man, you are lost in the world of fools. The invention of blogs and twitters keep creating losers. STOP IT. MAKES ME WANT TO VOMIT. GOOD THING, SOME HAVE THE DECENCY TO STOP SCRIPT BLOGGING AND MOVE TO EUROPE. AND STOP THE BULLSHIT, DAY AFTER DAY.

confession of a Screenwriter "going broke and becoming a bag lady" (MessageID: 62774)

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 09:33:32 GMT

Author: Howard Cheif

I will not say it's me or whoever. She wanted me to post this. She used to post in this forum. ================================= ================================= --------------------------------- "Upcoming screenwriter X got fired. Why? She was spending too much time writing on the side while holding a job at a university. Work was not being done for the University. Got fired. She lived on her savings. And her husband savings. But eventually the bank took the house. She got a divorce. She blames her mental problems due for her love of movies and not being able to sell her scripts (which was good!). But now she wakes up, calls me so often... SHE HAS NIGHTMARES of BECOMING A BAG LADY? Folks, she is 70 years old. She came to Hollywood with a dream. She is you. Yes, you: wasting time dreaming of making a living as a screenwriter. When? When? WILL YOU MAKE A LIVING AS A SCREENWRITER? SCREENWRITERS GETS PISSED ON EVERYDAY. IT'S NOT A RESPECTABLE FUN JOB. ASK THE PROS. THEY ARE OLD CEDAR TREES BEING PISSED BY THE ALPHA DOGS OF HOLLYWOOD. WRITERS ARE A DIME A BILLION. Are you willing to risk it all, even with the possibility of living on the street as a bag lady when you are 70 years old. Do you want to be a mental case. All writers are metal cases. The good and the bad. How much money are you saving for your retirement? Do you want to be crazy and childless. WHY ARE YOU DOING THE SAME THING OVER AND OVER. REFUSING TO CHANGE. WHEN WILL YOU GIVE UP YOUR SCREENWRITING ASPIRATIONS AND GET A FULL TME JOB. WHEN WILL YOU REALIZE MAKING MONEY SCREENWRTING IS LIKE WINNING THE JACKPOT. IT'S OE IN MILLION. WHEN YOU BECOME OLD AND GREY AND YOUR BRAIN and BONES ROT, YOU WILL NEED AT LEAST 500,000 IN THE BANK TO LIVE COMFORTABE LIFE INTO THE GOLDEN YEARS... THINK ABOUT IT, DO YOU WANT TO BE A BAG LADY, STOP THE MADNESS NOW. WHEN ARE YOU GOING TO MAKE MONEY FROM SCREENWRITING SO YOU STOP BEGGING YOU PARENTS OR HUSBAND OR THE GOVERNMENT FOR HELP FOR YOUR FAILED DREAMS AND REFUSING TO FACE REALITY AND SHOW THE WORLD THE BIG HOLLYWOOD MONEY YOU MADE FROM SCREENWRITING?"

movie "The PURGE" success proves why Readers like Zull,BitterScript Reader is 100% wrong and too lost in his puny world of reading, it will make 40 mil this week (MessageID: 62773)

Mon, 10 Jun 2013 06:08:06 GMT

Author: Robert Blacka

UPDATE: From VARITY: "Universal?s micro-budgeted scarer ?The Purge,? from Blumhouse Productions, screamed into theaters with a fantastic $36.4 million domestic start, outdoing even the most ambitious expectations in the $20 million range." It reportedly cost $3 million to make. Can't argue with success...

movie "The PURGE" success proves why Readers like Zull,BitterScript Reader is 100% wrong and too lost in his puny world of reading, it will make 40 mil this week (MessageID: 62772)

Sun, 09 Jun 2013 12:07:44 GMT

Author: James Edwards

Read it and weep, Zull:'?The Purge,? the low-budget home-invasion horror movie, topped theaters in the U.S. and Canada this weekend as the Vince Vaughn and Owen Wilson comedy vehicle ?The Internship? flopped for Twentieth Century Fox.' http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2013-06-09/hawke-horror-flick-the-purge-outsells-vaughn-wilson-flop.html?cmpid=yhoo I didn't find Zull's comments to be THAT harsh, but obviously he missed something crucial by dismissing the movie so cavalierly. Rustin Niles' comments in the page that followed were more on the money, God help us. (I say that for the benefit of anyone who's followed Niles online...).

movie "The PURGE" success proves why Readers like Zull,BitterScript Reader is 100% wrong and too lost in his puny world of reading, it will make 40 mil this week (MessageID: 62771)

Sun, 09 Jun 2013 11:59:22 GMT

Author: Robert Blacka

Howard, tend to agree with you on this one. I read the review and watched the trailer. I agree with Zull on one point though; I hate movies that show seemingly normal people doing completely dumb things. It's almost a given in low-budget horror flicks. I'm always saying to my wife, "No one would ever do that" (and she hates me for spoiling the movie). But in "The Purge" trailer I saw none of that. In fact, I think the premise is absolutely brilliant; once a year anything goes. So the public uses this opportunity to "cleanse" society of the unwanted elements. Unemployment under 1%, crime essentially non-existent, laudable goals to be sure. What could be wrong with that? I haven't seen the movie, but I would hope the movie has enough depth to explore the deep moral questions that would arise from this, and why, in the final analysis, it's a bad idea. But I can understand why the movie-going public would love a movie like this. It has all the elements any good movie should have; suspense, a solid premise, and the difficult questions every human being has had to struggle with since the beginning of time, "Do the means justify the ends?". Sorry Zull. I'm with Howard on this one.

list, 50 dollars or less script notes, for the aspiring screenwriters, please add to the list (MessageID: 62770)

Sun, 09 Jun 2013 11:18:55 GMT

Author: Robert Blacka

This is a great idea, but why not expand it? How about also including $51 to $100?

movie "The PURGE" success proves why Readers like Zull,BitterScript Reader is 100% wrong and too lost in his puny world of reading, it will make 40 mil this week (MessageID: 62769)

Sat, 08 Jun 2013 12:20:39 GMT

Author: Howard Cheif

Just really fed up with Readers insulting scripts they never read and films they were not involved with. Readers did not make this film , THE PURGE. THE PURGE was made for the public, not for Readers. THEY ARE LOVING IT. THEY DON'T WASTE TIME BLOGGING. THEY HAVE A LIFE.

"The Purge" thriller. Getting good revews. don't miss it!!! best microbugeted script,movie ever! very enjoyable and thrilling (MessageID: 62768)

Sat, 08 Jun 2013 12:16:32 GMT

Author: Howard Cheif

Here is the latest bit from Variety why THE PURGE will make lots of money this weekend. As an aside, the writers at Variety all rock and we enjoy reading their articles, talented bunch: "Box Office: 'The Purge' Scares Up $16 Million Friday, Eyes $38 Million Weekend http://variety.com/2013/film/box-office/box-office-the-purge-scared-up-16-million-friday-headed-to-38-million-weekend-1200494329/?utm_source=sailthru&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=breakingnewsalert

"The Purge" thriller. Getting good revews. don't miss it!!! best microbugeted script,movie ever! very enjoyable and thrilling (MessageID: 62767)

Sat, 08 Jun 2013 12:12:46 GMT

Author: Howard Cheif

The critics are looking at THE PURGE as a semi-flawed masterpiece. But luving it. I think it rocks purely on it's daring premise. It has the right director and cinematographer at work: Here is the latest review: "Despite ending on a strange note, and containing some cliched horror movie characters and tropes, The Purge is an easily commendable film to those who like the short, sweet, and cathartic violent enjoyment of a solid thriller ? and/or those who enjoy entertaining movies that also leave you with something to think about. Those looking for a good horror movie might not get the ?scares? they want ? but tension they will enjoy in earnest, along with a few good laughs at those ?I?m going in the basement alone? moments in the script. All in all, a solid bit of work from Mr. DeMonaco. http://screenrant.com/the-purge-reviews-2013-movie/ James DeMonaco is a hard working and talented director: James DeMonaco. LATEST CREDITS. . Staten Island Director, Screenplay Vigilandia Director, Screenplay The Kill Point Executive Producer Ryan Caulfield: Year One Executive Producer, Writer, Creator Assault on Precinct 13 Co-Producer, Screenplay (Adaptation ) Fire and Rain Screenplay Driver (Rogue Pictures) Screenplay (adaptation ) Silent Thunder Screenplay Gangster Screenplay The Listener Screenplay Jack Screenplay The Negotiator Screenplay Skinwalkers Screenplay

movie "The PURGE" success proves why Readers like Zull,BitterScript Reader is 100% wrong and too lost in his puny world of reading, it will make 40 mil this week (MessageID: 62766)

Sat, 08 Jun 2013 11:52:30 GMT

Author: Howard Cheif

One of the most respected Reader in LA: Trevor Mayes from www.scriptwrecked, my company used in the past, commented on Bitter Script Reader's webpage about the movie THE PURGE. And I caught wind of it. Zull(what is your real name man? sounds like an old movie) blogged how he hated the movie THE PURGE. Who is this clown - Bitter Script Reader ? Who cares what Zull thinks? He's a nobody in LA. Zull don't have a clue how Hollywood works or hustles. Leave it to us, the makers. I saw the movie. I read the script. We loved it. Flawed in pockets but still a masterpiece. We went with the office staff and friends, LOVED IT. Zull is always on the bench thinking he is a powerful Reader in Hollywood when he is a nobody. A big Zero. Sorry Zull Bitter Script Reader you are a big zero in Hollywood. Why is THE PURGE making money? It is indeed. Who are these monkeys on your blog taking about how THE PURGE sucks! Who are they? The never made a movie. And they all look like writers at Starbucks. Shave and brush your teeth guys. Only Unknown made some sense on your comment section. Here to prove it for THR: .UPDATED: The $3 million pic is vastly overperforming, Universal and Jason Blum's microbudgeted thriller The Purge -- starring Ethan Hawke and Game of Thrones' Lena Headey -- is headed for a stunning $38.4 million opening after topping the Friday box office with a mighty $16.7 million." http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/box-office-shocker-purge-tops-565007

list, 50 dollars or less script notes, for the aspiring screenwriters, please add to the list (MessageID: 62765)

Sat, 08 Jun 2013 10:07:13 GMT

Author: Howard Cheif

Here is quick list of script notes services for 50.00$ or less: Please add to the list. http://screenplayreaders.com/ --------------------------- http://www.afilmwriter.com/screenplay-coverage.html http://candidcoverage.blogspot.ca/ http://screenplayservices.yolasite.com/ ====================================== http://thecoveragefairy.wordpress.com/ ==================================================== http://thescriptjoint.com/formatting http://chaosscriptcoverage.wordpress.com/get-your-free-script-coverage-now/ http://www.discountscriptcoverage.com/

So upset at Script Reader, are you upset at Readers, plz share your stories (MessageID: 62764)

Sat, 08 Jun 2013 10:04:22 GMT

Author: Howard Cheif

Hi Paul, Susan and David, If a Reader loves dark horror,thriller scripts-should that Reader accept, 300$, to write coverage on a PG household drama scripts. Example, the remake of Swiss Family Robinson or a script similar Color Of Paradise)? I lost over 10K with Readers and Consultants who will read anything and show their true colors. How can a Reader cover a mature Civil War epic drama when that Reader loves scripts like HANGOVER and CENTIPEDES? And got friends-nerds from ComicCon Sanfr area? And stagnantly lives with his Mother in the basement or attic? And drink Vodka and smoke dope every weekend? And how could a gay man review a love story where a confused gay man opts to go back to his wife after realizing that he made a gaffe and the sex is better and wants to sermonize that homosexuality is wrong? Or a passionatelove story about 50s college romance, written for a Justin Timberlake and Ashlee Simpsons pitch? And how could a Reader who is a librarian hand in a coverage on an NC17 script similar to Fast And Furious, set on occupied Mars in the year 5000? And how can you ask that Reader to quip on the attached Video game script? And how could a Lesbian lady provide a coverage on a script like Father of Bride or Titanic? Or cover a script about a Vanessa Williams-like lady who necessities to save her husband by having a child and having a wedding superior than MY GREEK WEDDING and invite over 5000 guests? And live happily ever after on a Greek Island? It's like getting hate mail from these Readers. They really show their hatred for a particular genre, style , story...

So upset at Script Reader, are you upset at Readers, plz share your stories (MessageID: 62763)

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 21:53:15 GMT

Author: paul undari

Thanks, Robert. Quite embarrassed by your praise considering the ppl who frequent this site. Honestly, I'm still learning the craft. Difference between now and then is that now I read as many produced scripts as I can to look for better ways to execute craft or learn a new technique or trick. Biggest breakthrough is concentrating more on character and emotional resonance. I think the best compliment a writer can receive is when another writer praises the emotion you've captured. If you don't have that, you really don't have a chance in the market. But glad to be of service.

So upset at Script Reader, are you upset at Readers, plz share your stories (MessageID: 62762)

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 19:10:24 GMT

Author: Robert Blacka

I've received a lot of feedback from quite a few sources, and while most of it was useful, the best I've ever received was from Paul himself. He pulls no punches and gives it to you straight, but I appreciate that. I'm not looking for validation, I'm looking for advice that will make me a better writer. And Paul is a master at doing that. He is able to get right to the core of your writing and tell you what works and what doesn't. After I read his review of my script, I had an epiphany about writing that transcended all my writing, past, present, and future. Suddenly the light-bulbs went on and I was able to put a new perspective on everything I'd learned up to then. If he ever writes a book about script-writing I would buy it without hesitation. Let's hope he does someday.

So upset at Script Reader, are you upset at Readers, plz share your stories (MessageID: 62761)

Fri, 07 Jun 2013 13:44:43 GMT

Author: Santa Sierra

Finding a good script note giver is very difficult in Los Angeles because apparently anybody that can read can give script notes. A good script note giver is also a good writer, so perhaps the best person you can find is someone who writes well too. It took me years to find someone whom I could trust and I found her RECENTLY! Her name is Sandra Leviton from Scriptchix. She's given me the best script notes I have ever gotten.

So upset at Script Reader, are you upset at Readers, plz share your stories (MessageID: 62760)

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 20:18:03 GMT

Author: paul undari

James, It's all good in the hood, which is where I live. If truth be known, I hated writing this story b/c I'm not a family kinda guy. But if I ever write a dark, period sic-fi, you're my goto guy. Wow, this sounds really, er, guy-ish.

So upset at Script Reader, are you upset at Readers, plz share your stories (MessageID: 62759)

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 19:16:46 GMT

Author: James Edwards

Paul - I notice the script in question is a StoryPros semifinalist, so apparently my "assassination" didn't have too bad an effect. It might have helped both of us if you'd gotten back to me about my coverage, but that's all water under the bridge. On the other hand, I do have to admit that I'm weak in the Family/Human Interest genre category. If you've got a black-humored sci-fi period piece you want me to cover, though, I'm your man. Good luck with the next round.

So upset at Script Reader, are you upset at Readers, plz share your stories (MessageID: 62758)

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 18:30:30 GMT

Author: paul undari

Gotta chime in. I will never, ever pay more than $50 for coverage. And I only seek it these days for polishing. Get a group of writers you respect and who have demonstrated proficiency in both their craft and in their WRITING. Use them. They generally won't pull any punches whereas paying for coverage can turn into a nurturing hug, which means they won't be as straight with you. Furthermore, I have spent ridiculous amounts on coverage so, from experience, I can tell you that there is not much qualitative difference between a sharp reader/writer friend and someone who charges $500. If you do spend a lot, the service better offer scouting or help market your material. A "recommend" means diddly if it's not coming from the likes of a Pilar or ScriptShark. Also, it's very possible that some stories just don't resonate with some people. There are some genres I won't read. I know my limitations. And some writers have their own philosophy that contradicts your own gut feeling or the general opinion of the market you're writing to. I mention this because Mr. Edwards assassinated one of my stories, but I think it was due to different writing approaches than anything else. His feedback was quite good. But it didn't resonate with me. But if I gave him a story in his preferred genre, he'd probably be worth the $50 I'd be willing to pay. Also, I find it helpful to tell people where I'm at in the revision process. If it's a first draft, I don't care about overwriting or unfilmables. Just tell me if the basic story works. However, in later drafts, I want to know all the little things that create road bumps. Lastly, ask yourself what you are seeking. Is it feedback or validation? I really think a lot of writers set themselves up for disappointment by secretly hoping and wishing for a thumbs-up instead of what's not working. For $200 or more, I'd tell you everything you'd want to hear. And I'd even be nice about it. The other things is, I really don't think 99% of writers hit their stride until they've written at least five scripts. (Now I'm starting to sound like SD, so I'll shut up.)

So upset at Script Reader, are you upset at Readers, plz share your stories (MessageID: 62757)

Thu, 06 Jun 2013 09:39:54 GMT

Author: James Edwards

The best a reader can do is to make you aware of something about your script that doesn't work. It may seem to be nothing more than an acid reflux generator, when what THEY SAY doesn't work is the point of the script. Or when they DON'T GET that you're still not confident in the script, and greenlight it for whatever reason. That's why you need more than one reader. When two or more concur on their coverage, you need to think about making changes. Beyond that, never pay more than $250 for even the most complete coverage. And there's good coverage to be had out there, for less than a hundred.

So upset at Script Reader, are you upset at Readers, plz share your stories (MessageID: 62756)

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 17:11:10 GMT

Author: Howard Cheif

Two years ago he read my script and for 300$ he said that I have to get a degree in films and learn from the classics like Gone With The Wind and Full Metal Jacket. I was so upset that he did not get my genre ( fantasy script :Breakfast Club ish during World War 3). Now I got my script without any changes. Reversed the notes. And it's doing well at Amazon and contests. Why are Readers always thinking they are correct. They are not film-makers. Don't listen to them. They are amateurs taking advantage of the blind. They like talking to amateurs. Listen to your heart.

Despairing of finding any good, meaningful coverage service. (MessageID: 62755)

Wed, 05 Jun 2013 16:53:42 GMT

Author: Howard Cheif

Try him, knows a lot. Name: Christian Bio: Note: Christian will be busy the next few months working on a project. He will be available for select consultations though. -- Hi, I?m Christian Savage, one of the consultants here at Scriptshadow. A little background on me: I?ve been a part of the Scriptshadow community since Spring 2011. Before I stumbled on this site, I spent the previous five years or so studying the craft of screenwriting. This includes a firm understanding of traditional story structure and character development. Since joining Scriptshadow, I've provided feedback on several unproduced scripts, both amateur and professional. For the most part, my critiques have been positively received by the SS community. Some writers have requested script notes from me, outside of the usual SS interactions. Carson Reeves has also been generous enough to publish two guest reviews of mine. As a consultant, my goal is to give precise, constructive feedback on both technical and artistic aspects of any given script. I hope to work with many of you! Genres I prefer: action/adventure, sci-fi, thriller, and horror. I also prefer scripts that follow traditional story structures used by major studios. Favorite Films: Aliens, American Beauty, Braveheart, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, Finding Nemo, L.A. Confidential, Raiders of the Lost Ark, The Matrix, The Shawshank Redemption, The Silence of the Lambs Prices: Feature Length Screenplay 3 pages: $200 5 pages: $250 7 pages: $300 Sample Notes: download Guest Review: The Flight of Nez Perce Contact: svetshadow@gmail.com

Despairing of finding any good, meaningful coverage service. (MessageID: 62754)

Mon, 03 Jun 2013 22:44:43 GMT

Author: Santa Sierra

Been there, done that. Years and years of trying to find someone who doesn't ruin your script and gives ya objective coverage -- found it here: http://scriptchix.com/ I will never go to someone ELSE other than scriptchix. Highly recommend it.

AMC at Austin Film Festival (MessageID: 62753)

Wed, 22 May 2013 15:03:13 GMT

Author: Felicia Jaramillo

This is a great opportunity for people who are writing original content for TV. Have the brilliant minds behind Madmen, Walking Dead, and Breaking Bad see your work! Deadline is JUNE 1st!!! source: http://www.austinfilmfestival.com/news/amc-sponsor-one-hour-pilot/ May 20, 2013 ? Austin Film Festival (AFF) is proud to announce that AMC is the official sponsor and judge for the One-Hour Pilot Award of the 2013 Teleplay Competition. The AMC One-Hour Pilot Award is open to any pilot script written in the one-hour format for an original television series. AMC will review the top scripts submitted in the category and will determine the semifinalists, finalists, and winner. Finalists will be given the opportunity to meet with a representative from AMC during this year?s Conference (October 24-27) or over the phone at a later date. The winner of the One-Hour Pilot Award will receive a prize package including $1,000, reimbursement for airfare (up to $500) and hotel (up to $500) for attendance to the Festival and Conference, and the bronze AFF Typewriter Award.

SONY, the last of Old Hollywood (MessageID: 62752)

Mon, 20 May 2013 19:51:35 GMT

Author: Robert Blacka

There's a pretty good article in today's NY Times about how most studios have sold out to Wall Street in the search for higher profits. They are encouraged to avoid "art" films and stick with proven money-makers like action heroes, etc. I quote from the NY Times: Sony, while still rooted in Old Hollywood, has nonetheless started to change. In the fall, Mr. Lynton and Ms. Pascal started broad cost cuts, trimming spending on development (scripts, literary materials), laying off home-entertainment employees, winnowing spending on marketing and downsizing the studio?s mail room. This explains why it's so difficult to get scripts read by Production Companies; no money. For those interested in the whole article, here's the link: http://www.nytimes.com/2013/05/19/business/at-sony-investors-challenge-brings-unwanted-suspense.html?pagewanted=2&_r=0&nl=todaysheadlines&emc=edit_th_20130519

Kansas City low-budget Indie distributed by Lionsgate (MessageID: 62751)

Sun, 19 May 2013 09:29:20 GMT

Author: Paula Smith

I read the script for this film before they made it and it was well-written. It's been said it's easy to make a bad movie out of a good script but it's very hard to make a good movie out of a bad script. That said, the script was good. It was well-paced and it kept the tension throughout. The crew was excellent. The DP has a lot of experience and is very talented (he's signed on for my feature - I just need funding). The visual effects artist (you didn't think the crew waited around for an actual tornado did you?) has worked on films including Ghost Rider, Lost, Hawaii Five O, etc. They are writing the sequel and like most film projects will start once they have funding.

Kansas City low-budget Indie distributed by Lionsgate (MessageID: 62750)

Sat, 18 May 2013 19:18:17 GMT

Author: paul undari

Not bad. Looks like a quality film with quality acting. Obviously a team/crew with experience. Reminds me of a film someone mentioned to me 10 years ago. Goes something like this: A biker gang terrorizes everyone they come across. After a shootout with local police, leaving most of them dead or dying, they take refuge in a house, deep in the woods. No one's home. They trash the place. Then one of the bikers goes into the basement. He finds corpses hanging from hooks. He screams. All the bikers run down into the basement. They realize they've stumbled upon something more horrific than themselves. Suddenly, the front door creaks open. Not one, but an entire family of footsteps marches in. Guess what's for dinner? -- Wished I had seen the movie. Point is, you can't go wrong with basement horror (almost). Contained. Cheap to make. But hard to write. Once you expose the horror, how do you sustain it?

Kansas City low-budget Indie distributed by Lionsgate (MessageID: 62749)

Sat, 18 May 2013 13:18:40 GMT

Author: Mary Stevens

Took a look at the trailer. Might have a market.

Guys, listen up, screenwritersloft.com got excellent script notes coverage prices! (MessageID: 62748)

Sat, 18 May 2013 13:08:52 GMT

Author: Mary Stevens

Give them a change please. They are good. screenwritersloft.com

**Seriously, is it possible to live a financially comfortable life as full time Screenwriter? (MessageID: 62747)

Sat, 18 May 2013 13:07:26 GMT

Author: Mary Stevens

Never advise your family to pursue a career in Hollywood. It can be a starving life. Get a job first. Full time.

Story Structure Formulas Don't Work? (MessageID: 62746)

Sat, 18 May 2013 13:04:12 GMT

Author: Mary Stevens

She said Daivid, is a pest. Mind your own business.

TOO MUCH Stress! Any starting or pro screenwriters taking care of their sick or dying parents right now? (MessageID: 62745)

Sat, 18 May 2013 13:03:26 GMT

Author: Mary Stevens

I am currently writing a script on the stress of old age and dying. It's a cross between Armour and The Bucket and Moonlight. Logline: Two daughters fight over their mother's inheritance. But the mother can't remember where she buried the shoe box, full of jewels (2.2 mil). She hires her brother in law to find the box before she dies or trying. This is why I'm writing this :)- Don't know why. But over the last TEN years, the friends I made in the Screenwriting World, all talked about how they were busy giving "tender loving care: of their old sick parents and kids. Now I am there. My Dad and Step-mother is old and dying. He wasn't a nice man or so or she, from family gossips?, that is the hard part. I'm also blind. Someone else I hired is typing this for me. She is a real sociopath, my SM. Boutana! But to be frank, it gives me time to write this script. With all the quiet drama. The typist is a member at Moviebytes. I saw the movie "Affliction" and cried before I got sick and blackouts. Sad. My script is more about forgiveness and knowing one day this will be over and it will be our turn to get old and die. I wish my daughters will come back home and take care of business. If I can say.

DADDY, Where do Movies come from? (MessageID: 62744)

Sat, 18 May 2013 12:41:46 GMT

Author: Mary Stevens

Er hat eine Frage gestellt. Er fragte: "Papa, Filme Wo kommst her? Nun, die meisten Filme von Leuten, die frm dysfunktionalen Familien zu kommen. Wenn Sie nicht vermasselt Sie nicht in Hollywood geh�ren. Wenn Sie nicht verr�ckt sind, m�ssen Sie nicht in Hollywood geh�ren. Wenn Sie nicht m�gen, trinken Sie nicht in Hollywood geh�ren. Sind alle Top Drehbuchautoren Trinker? Es ist eine Phase der Alkohol trinkt, die zur Schaffung von guten Filmen und Skripte f�hrt ... Filme und Skripte werden von sozialen Tieren hergestellt. Nicht von denen, versteckt sich hinter Blogs und Tweets.

Story Structure Formulas Don't Work? (MessageID: 62743)

Sat, 18 May 2013 11:32:04 GMT

Author: David Barkley

The ?Kat? is back. I guess Frederick finally kicked her/him out but she/he?s back, like Mick Lo, Happy Day and all the others before her/him. Four new threads (2 rambles, 2 ads), in less than an hour. Now demoting posts calling him/her out by digging up old threads. Please don?t feed the troll.

DADDY, Where do Movies come from? (MessageID: 62742)

Sat, 18 May 2013 11:31:00 GMT

Author: David Barkley

Story Structure Formulas Don't Work? (MessageID: 62741)

Sat, 18 May 2013 10:38:34 GMT

Author: Mary Stevens

Take all your script books and sell them. Selling your work is 1/3 business, 1/3 creativity and 1/3 have lots of rich and family and friends. Why hide in blogs and twitters, make friends. Socialize. Stop talking to strangers on blogs and twitters. You think those strangers you are taking to on your blogs or forums are the Hollywood Elites or producers? Smell the sea salt guys. Make real friends. Stop blogggggggging and replying!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! And stop drinking. Stop taking on forums when you are drunk. Okay Guys.

DADDY, Where do Movies come from? (MessageID: 62740)

Sat, 18 May 2013 10:29:41 GMT

Author: Mary Stevens

When movies come from? Ha. It comes from Hollywood. The Hollywood elites. eg. The Michael Douglas family. Got it now.

Guys, listen up, screenwritersloft.com got excellent script notes coverage prices! (MessageID: 62739)

Sat, 18 May 2013 10:26:19 GMT

Author: Mary Stevens

David is back, as the bully of Fln. Who is David, guys, could someone tell me if he made over 200000 + last year in Hollywood? By chance David :)) are Chris Rock, you sound like him. Do you make as much as him? :) Jeeveee sake..., what happened, so sad there.

Free Script Coverage, this looks like a cool deal guys, from Chaoscriptcoverage, wordpress... (MessageID: 62738)

Sat, 18 May 2013 10:23:06 GMT

Author: Mary Stevens

Ignore David. He's a b*****, trying to avoid a conversation here. Stick to your assembly job guy.

Zombie Script/Film Brat Pitt's 'WORLD WAR Z" getting good word of mouth (MessageID: 62737)

Sat, 18 May 2013 10:22:03 GMT

Author: Mary Stevens

David, seriously, you are a pest, bothering fans.

**Seriously, is it possible to live a financially comfortable life as full time Screenwriter? (MessageID: 62736)

Sat, 18 May 2013 10:20:36 GMT

Author: Mary Stevens

David, are you okay? WTF are you? Are you top script expert in Hollywood. WTF do you know? Are you Brad Pitt? Who are you? Are you famous like CR. Are you Tyler? Are you Wilder? Are you Clooney? Are you a genius like Dickens? Shut your trap. I post. This is not Dubai or South Africa or Russia. We Fln love our freedom. Just mind you own business if you are not making a full time salary/contract as a scripter. Who are you? - Do you work at GM assembly line? - Do you eat insects in North Korea trying to make a living? - Are you this helpful to others? - Why pick of people, do you pick on those over 30? - Why are you a bully? - What have you sold? - Did they pick you to direct the new Star Wars? - Why should we listen to you? - I hope you become more tolerant of those trying to make big money in this business so they can live a financially good life. Okay Guys.

Zombie Script/Film Brat Pitt's 'WORLD WAR Z" getting good word of mouth (MessageID: 62735)

Sat, 18 May 2013 10:12:17 GMT

Author: David Barkley

Free Script Coverage, this looks like a cool deal guys, from Chaoscriptcoverage, wordpress... (MessageID: 62734)

Sat, 18 May 2013 10:11:53 GMT

Author: David Barkley

Guys, listen up, screenwritersloft.com got excellent script notes coverage prices! (MessageID: 62733)

Sat, 18 May 2013 10:11:26 GMT

Author: David Barkley

**Seriously, is it possible to live a financially comfortable life as full time Screenwriter? (MessageID: 62732)

Sat, 18 May 2013 10:11:06 GMT

Author: David Barkley

**Seriously, is it possible to live a financially comfortable life as full time Screenwriter? (MessageID: 62731)

Sat, 18 May 2013 09:58:40 GMT

Author: Mary Stevens

Okay, let's do MY budget PER month. EXPENSES: MORTGAGE $2070 RENT: $880 MEALS: $550 GASOLINE: $3024 SAVINGS: $251 FOR FAMILY: $500 ENT: $159 TELPHONE: $280 UTILITIES $583 PARENTS: $155 PETS: $288 MEMBR: $355 CHRISTMAS PLANNING: $100 TAXES: 12,000.00 VISA: 500 DISCOVERY: 500 AMEX: 400 LOANS:10,000.00 BOOKS : 635.00 So on a par, "one" has to achieve $40,000 revenue per month as a screenwriter to have a comfortable life: The only way is to become a pro screenwriter and cut a deal of 3 million per year per script. Only a few pro screenwriters are doing this. Some can do this. And surely, some are making 3 million per script. Do you know them? Just write 10 scripts for 10 years an you are set. Lastly, it's easier to become TV sit-com staff writer and make $200,000 per year. And if you sign a $695,000 dollar contract for sale/rewrite and you are one day late, could they turn a dime on you and not pay you?

Guys, listen up, screenwritersloft.com got excellent script notes coverage prices! (MessageID: 62730)

Sat, 18 May 2013 09:38:46 GMT

Author: Mary Stevens

Hey Guys, check out these affordable prices for script coverage and proofreading. Script Coverage $70.00 Proofreading $35.00 Scene Rewrites $10.00 http://www.screenwritersloft.com

Free Script Coverage, this looks like a cool deal guys, from Chaoscriptcoverage, wordpress... (MessageID: 62729)

Sat, 18 May 2013 09:34:18 GMT

Author: Mary Stevens

http://chaosscriptcoverage.wordpress.com/get-your-free-script-coverage-now/ "Get your FREE Script coverage now! Submissions are officially open for all screenwriters to send their screenplays in to get their screenplay coverage! How exciting. To submit your screenplay send an email to Daniel Botha at dan.chaosscripts@gmail.com. Head the email subject as ?SCRIPT COVERAGE SUBMISSION?. From there, Dan will be in touch with you asking for further details. In your email, don?t forget to introduce yourself and the genre of the story. Providing a logline is preferable, so the reader has some idea of what they will be reading. However, the logline the writer provides is NOT the logline that will be used in the script coverage. The reader will be providing their OWN interpretation on the logline as opposed the just imitating the reader. DO NOT send your script, until we ask for it. We will respond to your email quickly, but we would appreciate it if writers didn?t jump the gun when it comes to submitting. Take your time. You will still get your feedback. If the writer has any questions regarding the coverage, they need only ask Daniel. He will answer any questions. If the writers wish, a non-disclosure agreement can be signed between both parties. We understand why you may be a little cautious with copyright issues. We look forward to receiving your submissions."

Zombie Script/Film Brat Pitt's 'WORLD WAR Z" getting good word of mouth (MessageID: 62728)

Sat, 18 May 2013 09:22:11 GMT

Author: Mary Stevens

World War Z ( Epic Zombie Action movie from Brad Pitt company) I think it will do well at the box office. There are people out there saying it will flop. This will not flop. Do you think it will flop? Why? Just because some are into "artsy fartsy quirky" and "single poverty lifestyle bafoonish comedy" scripts, does not mean you can spit out your junk about World War Z. Stick to your own kind. Leave us alone. I was at a Dojo, and one of the parents had nothing bad to say about the trailer. Just shut up. You are not an expert. You don't have a mansion in Palm Beach or connected with the Hollywood elite. Please I could go on and on about her. Here are some sweet words about World War Z, Zombie Action Epic. http://www.mnn.com/lifestyle/arts-culture/blogs/first-world-war-z-impressions-trend-favorably

Kansas City low-budget Indie distributed by Lionsgate (MessageID: 62727)

Wed, 15 May 2013 20:14:29 GMT

Author: Robert Blacka

I think low budget is where all the action is these days. As I said in other posts, there just isn't a lot of loose money around, so no one is willing to risk a fortune on an unknown entity. Another good example of a really well done low budget film is "The Giant Mechanical Man (2012)". It's well acted, well filmed, and has a superb script. It's kind of a "Rocky" type story, but the dialog is so riveting I was hooked right from the beginning and I don't normally watch these types of movies. The ending was kind of predictable, but hey, there is only so many ways you can end a movie of this type. The movie cost a reported $900,000 to make and earned $7.3 million at the Box Office. Not exactly a blockbuster, but that's a $6 million profit. And $6 million is nothing to sneeze at. I think the title probably did the film no justice and may have contributed to the low take. I almost didn't watch this film based on the title, but Netflix put it in my top ten box (based on other films I watched) so I gave it a try. And I'm glad I did. What I learned: Titles are important! Never forget that. Word of mouth advertising is great if you can get it, but don't count on it. A so-so title can be a real turn-off when it comes to packing a movie theater.

Kansas City low-budget Indie distributed by Lionsgate (MessageID: 62726)

Wed, 15 May 2013 18:00:30 GMT

Author: Pras Biswas

Paula - good point. But where can I find really good acting talent? In my opinion good acting can light up a script just as much as bland acting can sink the same script. Tarantino is little more than good acting and good dialogue.

Kansas City low-budget Indie distributed by Lionsgate (MessageID: 62725)

Wed, 15 May 2013 16:03:33 GMT

Author: Paula Smith

Here is an example of a low-budget indie film that was made in Kansas City with local talent. http://www.redbox.com/movies/nailbiter# It is a horror film and did well in festivals before being picked up by Lionsgate for distribution. It will be available on RedBox May 28, 2013. I won?t share the budget because it?s not my film, but it was very low budget. All the crew was local as well as talent. The camera used was the Red Epic (you would be surprised at how many people in your town own this camera). So many writers write for the Hollywood market. Consider writing for the low-budget indie film market and connecting with local talent. It?s out there no matter where you live and your chance for a finished film is much higher. I?ve been working toward writing scripts that will be lower-cost to produce.

Looks like some serious writers hang out here. Am I wrong? (MessageID: 62724)

Mon, 13 May 2013 18:53:09 GMT

Author: Robert Blacka

Paul & SD: Thanks for the explanation. Yes, of course, I forgot about distribution. Distribution is probably even harder than fund-raising. What multiplex would show a film from an unknown, unless you could guarantee a minimum take at the end of the day? It costs real money to heat and air condition the place not to mention rent. I suppose a good production company is worth every penny they earn if they can get your movie out there for the public to see.

Bankable Script (MessageID: 62723)

Mon, 13 May 2013 18:35:05 GMT

Author: Scott Aiman

Further for the record, my script received two reads, the second of which fared slightly better.

Looks like some serious writers hang out here. Am I wrong? (MessageID: 62722)

Mon, 13 May 2013 15:10:04 GMT

Author: Script Dude

You're all correct. Always remember... the old cliche, it's called "SHOW BUSINESS" not SHOW ART.

Looks like some serious writers hang out here. Am I wrong? (MessageID: 62721)

Sun, 12 May 2013 23:51:02 GMT

Author: paul undari

Sorry, Robert. Didn't realize you were asking SD. But while I'm at it, there are logistical and practical concerns to take into account. A newbie producer will generally produce an inflated production budget based on inexperience and lack of resources. An experienced producer and/or prodco knows how to make a movie at cost, thus increasing the likelihood of a reasonable cost-to-return. You also have to take into account tax credits and best tax incentive states. Plus there's additional leeway to negotiate logistics with a town so you can lower your production budget and thereby attract more recognizable talent. Then you have to figure how best to leverage gross and backpoints to attract best possible talent. A new filmmaker has none of these connections, nor the savvy to negotiate the million little things necessary to make a multi-million-dollar picture. So try to make as many connections as you can. You're going to need them all. And always show appreciation when someone does lend a helping hand. Too many people ask without giving or offering.

Looks like some serious writers hang out here. Am I wrong? (MessageID: 62720)

Sun, 12 May 2013 23:43:32 GMT

Author: paul undari

Just b/c you have partial funding and elements, like a director and even a producer -- or even actors (not top-shelf) -- it would still be wise to produce it under the banner of an established prodco b/c making a movie doesn't guarantee distribution. Most who make indies cross their fingers in the film festival circuit. But most (99%) of indy films go nowhere. They collect dust. Before questioning, try to understand the business of Hollywood. Distributors only care about bankable (or recognizable) talent. An established prodco may have access to decent talent that you -- a newbie producer/writer -- don't have. Plus they may have relationships with distributors and with studio entities. I'm trying to work with an established prodco that has produced credits with borderline A-list talent. Such a company also has its own funding sources, which could add to mine. Suddenly, you have a full budget. But if you don't make a quality film with recognizable talent, who's going to pick it up? Where are your distribution outlets? Do you even know the full spectrum of the ancillary markets or derivative markets? Do you know how foreign distribution works? So, yeah, I'd be all too happy to shack with someone who knows all these things.

Looks like some serious writers hang out here. Am I wrong? (MessageID: 62719)

Sun, 12 May 2013 21:27:51 GMT

Author: Robert Blacka

Pras: RE: ?why isn?t there a single movie... I want to see? . You hit the nail on the head. One of the reasons I began writing scripts is because I knew I could do better than 90% of the crapola that gets made into film. But 90% isn?t good enough. It has to be 100% to get noticed, especially for a newbie. SD comments offer a taste of the harsh reality; unless you have funding in place and actor commitments, you?ll have a tough time getting any production company to read your script. Not necessarily impossible, but very-very hard. SD: My question is this; if a writer already has funding and actor commitments, then why in heavens name does he need a production company? He might as well go the last mile and produce it himself.

Sidewalk Film Festival Sidewrite - Break out your Shorts! (MessageID: 62718)

Sun, 12 May 2013 16:01:37 GMT

Author: Daniel Goforth

The deadline for the Sidewalk Film Festival Sidewrite Screenplay Competition is just days away now. MOVIE MAKER magazine named Sidewalk one of the Top 25 Coolest Film Festivals and TIME magazine called it one of the "Top Ten Festivals for the Rest of Us". This is strictly a short screenplay format (15 pages or less). You've still got time! Heck, if you've got a great 10-15 page scene in one of your feature specs, you might find that (with just a little work) it might make a great short script. Previous celebrity final round judges have included folks like Max Adams (Excess Baggage), Jeff Lowell (John Tucker Must Die, Spin City), Jeanne Bowerman (Editor at SCRIPT Magazine) and many more. Go to http://sidewalkfest.com/sidewrite/ and get your script in today!!! Final Deadline is May 15.

Bankable Script (MessageID: 62717)

Sun, 12 May 2013 13:24:00 GMT

Author: Scott Aiman

No problem, James. I'd probably take your recommendation again. After playing this game for awhile and chatting with others on this board, it seems we all have some events we typically do well in and others, well, you know. Good luck in this and other contests.

Bankable Script (MessageID: 62716)

Sun, 12 May 2013 10:36:48 GMT

Author: James Edwards

Sorry you wasted your money, Scott. Reading screenplays is incredibly subjective, etc., etc. The good thing that came out of this for me was that it has pushed me to rewrite, (more creatively), a script that I thought had no future (maybe because it's about the End of the World). And the notes were excellent, for this particular script, as I said above. It's the luck of the draw. And better luck to you next time.

Zero Dark Thirty, grossly inaccurate, Dianne Feinstein is right, politics kicks hollywood screenwriters (MessageID: 62715)

Sat, 11 May 2013 16:41:35 GMT

Author: paul undari

The question for me was why DEVGRU (formerly Seal Team 6) got the assignment and not DELTA. If the goal was to get Bin Laden aboard a US Naval vessel, then using a maritime Tier-1 operations unit would make most sense. In fact, DELTA was used. They were the ones giving aerial perimeter support via snipers. They were also among the first to front-breach. Where Bigelow screwed up was not adding a meaningful soundtrack to the final operation. And not giving Jessica's character a standing ovation by the Operators in the very end. Oh, and those SOG operatives in the compound that died among the seven-member CIA team did probably shoot the asshole suicider before he pushed the detonator. In fact, he was probably already in "button mode." So what triggered the explosion was killing him, thus forcing his thumb off the "button." Anyway, this is just a rant. I thought the movie lacked much needed tension and suspense during the most crucial moments. Oh, it's my understanding that Seals look for publicity (for funding and such) while Delta shuns publicity at all cost. That's why Seals got all the credit.

Zero Dark Thirty, grossly inaccurate, Dianne Feinstein is right, politics kicks hollywood screenwriters (MessageID: 62714)

Sat, 11 May 2013 15:30:58 GMT

Author: Mary Stevens

I agree with leading US Senators Dianne Feinstein and Carl Levin, both Democrats, and John McCain who send letter to Sony as a warning a while back. Screenwriters must embrace the fact that :politicking: is real and watch what you write. Scripts like this must be reviewed by the White House before they are made into a films. The security of America demands it. Film?s director, Kathryn Bigelow, was omitted from the Oscar?s Best Director shortlist, I wonder why. She is so all over the map with unreliable notes. 5,800 movie industry professionals who make up the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences... And all that part in the script about Pakistan is horseshit. Key Pakistani spies made it possible for the Navy Seals to do their job. That's the script NO ONE WILL EVER WRITE. What part of the script did you hate or politically disagree with?

Why is 99% of top Sceenwriters are male? Will theymake it (MessageID: 62713)

Sat, 11 May 2013 15:11:12 GMT

Author: Mary Stevens

So true. The day James Cameron ex-wife writes something as unique as "Avatar is the day I eat my shoe collection. Men (as you said, 99.00%) are writing some of most creative scripts ever. They like to live in a fantasy world, which is good if you want to be screenwriter. Men are explorers. Men are the most creative because they have testosterone addiction. The day we have a female James Cameron or Nolan or Shane Black or Mel Gibson... well this will never happen. Just be yourself women. Don't try to be a man. Just be yourself. Don't imitate. A woman is a woman. A man is a man. A fish is a fish. A lion is lion. Yeah Yeah. And inception or Halo is guy thing. Don't **** with them. It's a guy thing. You know guys in garages taking shit. Gay men have their own style of writing :) Women who love guy films, have their derivative cookie style. :) Men in general are more visual. High Concept Films eg. the new Lone Ranger film and Porn is man's thing. Get over it. Peace.

Bankable Script (MessageID: 62712)

Sat, 11 May 2013 14:02:11 GMT

Author: Scott Aiman

Decided, against the advice of some vets on this board, to give this one a go, and I achieved some sort of distinction. My comedy received a "0" in every single category. The reader called it "horrible" and said he/she had to stop reading after 60 pages. I feel so honored, much like John Belushi (pencils up my nose). For the record, the same script is twice a semifinalist and once a quarterfinalist in better known contests during the past year.j

Looks like some serious writers hang out here. Am I wrong? (MessageID: 62711)

Fri, 10 May 2013 19:56:32 GMT

Author: James Jackson

"why are there so many bad movies at the multiplexes?" Simple, read chapter 10 of Lennon's "Writing Movies for Fun and Profit," or "Why Does Almost Every Studio Movie Suck Donkey Balls?"

Looks like some serious writers hang out here. Am I wrong? (MessageID: 62710)

Fri, 10 May 2013 12:36:18 GMT

Author: Pras Biswas

>>Things are getting so tight in Hollywood that now they're demanding attachments before they'll even read a script. Especially from a new writer and even from many of the pros. Meaning... funding in place and actor commitments. It's tough out there. With all this - why is it there isn't a single movie in the multiplexes that I want to go see?

Looks like some serious writers hang out here. Am I wrong? (MessageID: 62709)

Thu, 09 May 2013 20:48:45 GMT

Author: paul undari

Good point, SD. Lol about the P and P. 6 out of 10? I figured it would be higher. I've noticed all the great scripts universally resonate. I'm well aware of packaging. I'll know in a week whether it'll work for me or not. I'm trying to entice a prodco to work with me based on the elements I have in place and the sick logistical support I bring to the table. I should be able to drop my below-the-line by half-a-million. Can't explain further until I have more than letters of intents and have meeting with my development team.

Looks like some serious writers hang out here. Am I wrong? (MessageID: 62708)

Thu, 09 May 2013 19:03:44 GMT

Author: Script Dude

P and P, the only thing I would change in Paul's comment is that "3 out of 10 percentage." If you only have 3 out of 10 people liking your script, concept, writing or whatever... you need to go back to the drawing board. It needs to be at least 6 out of 10 to continue on... otherwise you're just wasting your time. Nowdays, there are so many scripts out there that it better have a really great, brain catching concept. And even then, the execution must be flushed out to the fullest before it will get any traction at all. Things are getting so tight in Hollywood that now they're demanding attachments before they'll even read a script. Especially from a new writer and even from many of the pros. Meaning... funding in place and actor commitments. It's tough out there. This site has a lot of good writers. Whether they will take the time is another thing. Great, fast read, well execution scripts take 2 hours or less to read and comments are easy to write up. Shitty, bad structured, bad execution scripts take 2 weeks and are very painful to write comments because it drains every ounce of passion and creativity out of the reader. Good luck and I hope your script is in the first catagory.

Looks like some serious writers hang out here. Am I wrong? (MessageID: 62707)

Thu, 09 May 2013 17:58:48 GMT

Author: paul undari

Pras, Believe it or not. Without formula, no one could write a script in the time it takes to put it into production. The trick is not the show the formula in the writing. Every genre has its rules. Not b/c someone made them up but b/c that's the way things are. Just like all elements begin with the fundamental particle of Hydrogen. Thus, 2 H atoms fuse to make Helium. Likewise, an action movie has to have ACTION. And if you take a romance and comedy, you get... Just the way it goes. I've also discovered most writers secretly look more for validation than feedback. You should specify what type of feedback you're looking for based on how far your script is to the finish line. In a first draft, I only want to know if the basic story works. If this doesn't, I've found just about everything else fails. If you have a polished script, then seek tweaks or what exactly isn't resonating to get it over the finish line. Also, what works for one is anathema to another. If you can get three out of ten people to thumbs-up your script, you're doing well. Lastly, if my script doesn't read like a produced one, then I know it has no chance. The biggest question for any script is if it resonates emotionally. Without emotion stabbing your eyes, you're making it that much easier for the reader to "pass." It is so much easier to say no. Why? Jobs, man, it's all about not losing your job.

Looks like some serious writers hang out here. Am I wrong? (MessageID: 62706)

Thu, 09 May 2013 13:04:12 GMT

Author: Pras Biswas

I landed here getting bounced from board to board...can't find really serious writers much anywhere....lots of sighs and frustrated writers. So few love writing for its own sake and do not realize that MONEY and FAME and the BY-PRODUCTS of something they love to do rather than its goal. (Like Wealth is the BY-PRODUCT of Business and not its GOAL which is to create VALUE) I am looking to form a CLIQUE of FRIENDS for exchanging feedback. Not those formula-drugged first line studio readers but people who GET the goals of the work and judge from internal goals of that work as opposed to external formula compliance. I will also return the favour of course.

Why is 99% of top Sceenwriters are male? Will theymake it (MessageID: 62705)

Thu, 09 May 2013 12:58:08 GMT

Author: Pras Biswas

Read "The Mating Mind - How Sexual Choice Shaped the Evolution of Human Nature" by Geoffrey Miller for your answer. 99% of all human invention were made created by the male of the species. Creativity and art are the result of sexual selection - and the trigger for all of them was the need to woo a mate. Creativity is a sexual attractor. Sexual rather than natural selection--and uses it to build a theory about how the human mind has developed the sophistication of a peacock's tail to encourage sexual choice and the refining of art, morality, music, and literature. Females were passive selectors and faced no such competitive pressures. Of course nothing is black and white, so there are creative females, because their fathers passed on the genes for creativity to them. OK, just read the book before calling me a sexist.

Tracking Board - Launch Pad Semi-finalists (MessageID: 62704)

Mon, 06 May 2013 17:19:52 GMT

Author: Daniel Shea

Thanks, Michael, et al! No traffic yet, but fingers (toes, spleen, etc) are crossed. Not sure how far this one will get; I'm calling its genre "elevated grindhouse" :)