Message Board

Does anyone know what happened to Barrier Magazine? My script was in the Top 10 for their 2002 contest, but they never announced a winner, and their website is down. Thanks.

Is this a legit contest? I just placed Top 100, and now notice that it is not listed at Moviebytes.

I'm in. Got my first script to review this p.m. Easy registration and upload of my script. The minor problem I encountered was immediately addressed and corrected by Greg. So far, so good. DG

V.O. is used for a narrarator's voice, very often misused in place of O.S. which is a speaking character who cannot be seen.

I use: LINDA (filtered) Hello?

for a voice at the other end of a phone line.

DG

Sorry, SP format didn't translate in my post.

DG

I have also received e-mails (another one today---postmark deadline is tomorrow), and a phone message mentioning a specific script. I just assumed I got them because I entered last year. I had already planned to skip it this year because of the hard sell + I can't decide whether my new script would be suitable as a comedy or drama (scripts are judged by category in this contest.) dg

Doreen--

I don't use (CONT'D)when resuming dialogue by the same character, same scene or not. It doesn't serve a purpose, takes up space and slows down the read.

Final Draft software automatically inserts a (CONT'D) at the bottom of a page where dialogue overlaps to the next page.

Good Luck with your script.

DG

I received the same e-mail from Brian at Benderspink this morning---"thanks, but no thanks." He's had that script for MONTHS, so I had written them off anyway on this one. I really don't take it very personally.

DG

Freddie--

I'd like to read your plotless script as I am between scripts on Helium (taking a short break.) Email me. (I tried to link directly to your email, but it didn't work.) grvtrncl@aol.com

-The Other DG

Walter;

I adapted my first published novel into screenplay format and it was a Nicholl quarterfinalist last year, so I may be able to answer specific questions if you want to e-mail me.

The other DG

PS Slow Dance with a Dead Man (my novel)is available at barnesandnoble.com (Couldn't resist the opportunity to plug it.)

I'm in, hoping for a repeat performance (at least), of my quarterfinalist status of last year. I'm entering a different script this year. Good luck everyone.

The Other DG

David--

I've had probably 8-10 inquiries regarding my Nicholl quarter finalist entry, but very little followup from the readers (I heard from Benderspink several months after recieving a very enthusiastic request for a read.) Admittedly, it is not a highly marketable script with a very narrow audience. It still gets some attention on InkTip though and has been read by probably 100 or more people through contests, InkTip and Helium with the Helium reviews being all over the place (big surprize.) I was top 300 out of 6,044 entrants and I'll tell you it's a great feeling to get that letter from Nicholl.

The Other DG

In my current script, a high concept comedy, I've introduced 5 cameos in the first 60 pages. They range from snap-shot appearances to minor walk-ons with dialogue. All appear as themselves and (except one), are B actors from the past (think Danny Bonaducci). Without these specific characters portraying themselves, the script is shot to hell as they act as a vehicle to carry the story forward rapidly. All are known for their personality/physical quirks, so will be unmistakeably recognizeable to the viewer.

Now, the question: Is this a bad idea? Sort of along the lines of don't suggest specific music? Will a reader throw this thing in the trash at the sight of the first cameo? Also, one of the cameos appears as a character he portrayed in an old sitcom. Is this a "No, you did'nt"? Is it legal to do this?

-The Other DG

PS What is the correct spelling of Jim Makay's last name? (The sportscaster)

David-

Brad and Jennifer are staying in the guest house while their place is being renovated. Sorry.

-The Other DG

PS Were you taking a shot at me with that last post? I'm unclear as to what you meant.

David--

My apologies for mistaking your compliments for a slam. Put me in the category of "sensitive, obsessive screenwriter."

The Other DG

I was gonna use "Heavy D," but I think that one's taken.

The Other DG

I wrote my first novel in 10 months. Edits (too many to count), included; First script (adaptation of the novel), was 3 months; 2nd script, 7 months; Current script, 70-page milestone, just shy of six months, with no meaningful editing done.

I always date my disks on the day I start something, so I can track the length of time it takes to complete. This helps me forcast future writing projects and gives me a target for completion. Of course, the writing's never done till it's done.

I don't "block" my writing projects or use outlines for the most part. I sometimes use Final Draft's Scene Navigator to plug in spur of the moment ideas. Otherwise, I just sit down with an idea and write. Usually 2 hours per night for weeks at a time. When my current project is finished, I'll take a break and enjoy the summer. I do most of my writing in the colder, darker months. Maybe I'll track the actual hours I spend writing my next script. Could be interesting to take the amount of $ I spend on contests and WSN divided by the number of hours it takes to write a SP to see how much I pay to write. (Or however that equation works.)

The Other DG

Bryan--

I am rushing to finish my current script so I can hit the kayak, bicycle and garden. I have a great place to write on my laptop outdoors but there are too many distractions. As soon as I finish this one (20 pages + or - to go), I can sit outside and edit which takes much less concentration.

The Other DG

My two cents:

My experience with groups was that the biggest, most long-winded critics never brought in page 1 to critique. I no longer do groups.

The Other DG

Happy Mother's Day to all Moms!

I've just finished my 3rd script and registered it with the WGA. It's a comedy/farce, 90 pages in length. I'm interested in getting a little feedback on it in exchange for a critique of someone else's work. To narrow the pool just a little, I am more interested in dark, comedy, drama, thriller type scripts as opposed to sci fi, period or historical pieces. No offense, just my preference. Also, I prefer to read something fresh, maybe just finished, since that is what I am holding up for examination. Any takers? Email me at GRVTRNCL@aol.com.

-The Other DG

Does anyone know when finalists will be announced by American Accolades contest? There isn't any announcement on their web site. Deadline was 2/27/03.

The Other DG

Way to go, Jay. Best of luck to you.

-The Other D.G.

Gil--

Thanks for the update on AASC.

The Other DG

A woman WHO thinks she's an amnesiac...

(not "...that thinks...")

-The Other DG

I sent a logline and synopsis and he responded immediately. I mailed two scripts to him this afternoon at his request.

-The Other DG

The best exposition I have ever seen is when we find out that Diane Wiest's character is agoraphobic in I AM SAM. Her previous odd behavior is instantly explained. I love Diane Wiest and she was brilliant in that film.

-The Other DG

Terri-

Sorry, but a better scene in B.O.B. (one of my fave films), is when Diane Wiest orders two martinis in the bar and John Cusack says, "How did you know what I drink?" and Diane says, "Oh. You want one too?"

-The Other DG

Felippe;

Where should I send a submission?

Thanks,

Dennis Greza

For the record, Ellum, I walked out of Ishtar.

The Other DG

D. Jay:

I agree. Very classy.

I entered AA this year and haven't recieved news--good or bad--in my mailbox yet.

Just wondering why there isn't an announcement on the AA website or on MB's site?

The Other DG

Faith--

You are notified by snail mail if you make the Quarters. It can be quite a dramatic event.

-The Other DG

Rejected for my dark drama, SKEETER. This after reaching the quarters last year for my adaptation of my novel.

The Other DG

I'm contemplating writing an epic with a "Jacob's Ladder"-type ending. Problem is, I haven't figured out how to write the thing as it will require keeping the protagonist's ID secret throughout most of the script.

In general, I don't write during the summer, unless it is song lyrics, because I get so obsessive about it and it takes up all my free time; time that could be spent pulling weeds or otherwise maintaining my garden.

-The Other DG

Anyone have contact info for them?

The Other DG

Got what I needed. Thanks for the nudge Terri and David E.

Dennis

BTW, Terri: If you find "the name" after your meeting, maybe you could let me know? Otherwise I am faxing AS's agent.

-Dennis

Kudos to James for placing 2nd in Red Inkworks summer contest for his script, ADIA.

Way too go, buddy!

-The Other DG

What is the correct formatting for the use of "Insert" ? I have a character holding an essay whose title I'd like to show physically.

I use Final Draft 5 if that makes a difference.

Thanks, Dennis

Thanks everyone. Back to writing.

I don't write outlines. Once an idea is born and I'm convinced it's worth exploring, I write FADE IN: and start pumping. I wrote 40 pages in five days on my current script, got stuck, and decided to go back and edit, look at continuity and delete useless dialogue and action. This constitutes my first rewrite. Using this formula, my original idea has changed dramatically and I like the result better. Funny, I don't think about writing 3 Acts, but my writing style just produces them automatically, so I've essentially just completed Act I and have some time to consider how Act II will unfold..

Gil;

I've used 2 techniques on my 3 previous scripts and am using them on my fourth (80 pages in 5 weeks, fast for me):

1) I keep a running list of ideas, ques, reminders, etc., beyond the body of the screenplay (i.e. at the bottom of the page), which can be dozens of lines long. As these bits are implemented into the story, I delete them. I always have these to fall back on if I get stuck somewhere and just want to review them and tweak something somewhere else in the story. That way, at least I'm writing. Usually, while doing this, something will come to me that is a logical next sequence in the progression of the story. And off I go again.

2) I map out future scenes in Final Draft "Scene Navigator." This is a great tool to use to create continuity, PLUS you can always click and drag scenes where you want them. Again, by mapping future scenes (forgetting action and dialogue), I'm still writing and moving forward. When I know what's going to happen within those scenes, I go back and write it.

Good Luck.

Dennis

...logline.

Just finished my new script and here is its logline:

An alcoholic psychologist is manipulated into examining his guilt-ridden past by a schizophrenic patient who has nothing to lose.

Any ideas on how to improve this?

Thanks.

Dennis

P.S.

This is the script I wrote in 5 weeks.

Dennis

Excellent suggestions. I did 86 the "nothing to lose" part shortly after I wrote it and replaced it with "...who is able to forecast future events" as it is more accurate.

The "provides therapy" idea got my mind working although the schizo patient doesn't really provide therapy; he steers the shrink on a path that results in his confessing to a long ago murder.

THANKS. Dennis

An alcoholic psychologist is ruthlessly tormented by a schizophrenic patient who knows his darkest secret.

David--

This script's protagonist alternates between three key people, so the logline can be told from three different perspectives. I'm choosing not to muddle things in the LL by introducing the third person. A psychological thriller, where identities are switched at some point, makes it difficult to describe in a sentence or two without giving away the big prize. But I will get right. You guys have been a huge help.

A schizophrenic priest knows his therapist's darkest secret and just might tell someone.

Sleep tight. Say your prayers.

Dennis

One more...

An alcoholic psycologist is entrapped by a scizophrenic patient who knows his darkest secret.

An alcoholic therapist is entrapped by a scizophrenic patient who knows his darkest secret.

E-mail me if you'd like to read the synopsis.

Jerry-

You're right about us novelists. The transition to screenwriting was very revealing and, by design, educational. It's challenging to transform a paragraph of action lines into one or two meaty sentences, and I'm always pleased when I accomplish that.

Dennis

Rock:

Absolutely, put in up here. I got some great help with my LL last week.

Dennis

Two things come to mind:

1) It's WAY too long. Try one or two SHORT but descriptive sentences.

2) I've been told not to refer to any characters by name in a log line unless they are well known historical persons or the genre is High Concept.

Dennis

Definitely JACOB'S LADDER...also 28 DAYS LATER.

Curt-

You have me curious...is SHAKER HEIGHTS still available for download? I'd like to take a look at it.

Dennis

'Educate when you write.'

Frank-

That is a strategy/goal I employ in my writing. It translates into "taking chances," and gets noticed because it's not widely utilized by most wannabes.

-Dennis

George--

Your post includes VA as being recognized as an Appalacian state, and therefore eligible for entry into the contest, however the website does not recognize VA. Can you clarify, please?

Dennis

"avoid the use of passive voice ("bob is standing in his living room. chuck is drinking some coffee") and use the active voice.

bob stands in the living room. chuck drinks coffee."

Hey! Wait a second! I've been told the exact opposite by readers who supposedly know something about the subject. I even re-edited an entire script to reflect the advice! Can others please weigh in on this?!

-Dennis

Crap!

Thanks a lot everyone. Will this goof up bust me in the 8 contests I entered this magnificent script in??

-Dennis

Thanks for the back rub, Eric.

This particular script is not dominated by passive voice as that would be impossible to do, so I guess I feel better. My 3 previous scripts were written in active voice so I should have been suspicious of this agent's advice when no one contradicted him previously.

I've tried in vain to find the file where that advice was given, so I could quote him here. I'm nuts, but I'm not crazy...I know what I read.

-Dennis

...for Quartering in ASA. Way to go man, and good luck in the Semi's.

-Dennis

I'm in with THE LANGUAGE OF LOVE.

Good luck everybody.

-Dennis

Carolyn;

FADE IN: is always left justified;

FADE OUT. is always right justified.

-Dennis

Leon-

I also entered and the notification date on the app was 5/31/04. I only know this because I track this sort of thing and appreciate when contests actually post a notif date. Many do not. Besides, it's an investment.

Good luck.

-Dennis

David-

iUniverse (who published my novel, Slow Dance with a Dead Man, in 2000), sponsors contests regularly and has terrific author support and book sales events. I highly recommend them for online publishing. iUniverse.com.

-Dennis

Marcel-

Wanna tell us why you "won't do it again"?

-Dennis

My recent success was making the cut for the first round finals in Scr(i)pt Magazine's Open Door contest (Writer's and Artists)for my drama, THE LANGUAGE OF LOVE. I think second round may be posted on their site.

-Dennis

A logline for my pschycological thriller:

"Jacob's sixth sense swimming pool ladder."

-Dennis

Got my "dink" letter today, after semifinaling in Scr(i)pt Mag with the same script (The Language of Love).

-Dennis

PS as for thinking positive, I don't enter a contest unless I think I can win it. Otherwise, what's the point?

"While we have thus far decided not to distribute scoring information to additional entrants, another 800-plus entrants received at least two (low) positive scores but fell short of the top 15%."

Greg;

I'd throw $5 in a hat and pass it around to gaze upon the "Top 800" list.

Otherwise, thanks for making Nicholl the premiere screenwriting contest that motivates and inspires us fledglings to continue to be innovative with our craft. Well done.

Sue;

I love to edit. It would be rare that I opened one of my scripts to a random page and didn't make even the smallest amendment. It's polish applied lovingly.

-Dennis

You're right, Paula...enter to WIN. This isn't slot machines.

I got an email from Scriptapalooza informing me of my status in the contest and it was positive. I was reeling until I saw the site where the roster is listed. I think there must be 300+ quarters. I'm wondering how many people enter this contest? Anyone know?

(PS I dinked in this contest two years in a row with two different scripts, so this still feels pretty damn good.)

Good luck to everyone who advanced.

-Dennis

Sue and Edward;

Editing an already finely tweaked script is like freeing a splinter from your toe. It was there and annoying and then one day it just had to go.

-Dennis

Anyone know when an announcement will be made?

-Dennis

Thanks, Richard. I didn't see the post on the website.

-Dennis

Is this the quarter or semi announcement? I thought I dinked awhile back. Of course it's possible that I imagined that.

-Dennis

DG;

Congrats and good luck on your film. In your absense, I have signed many of my posts as...

-The Other DG

Anyone have experience dealing with this group for coverage service?

-Dennis

Big kudos to Danny Howell and his script THE PAPER BOY for placing 3rd at Screenwriter's Showcase. For those of you who don't know Danny, this script has done very well in contests over the last few years.

Congrats, Danny. Well done!

-Dennis Greza

Good God, Gil, that was well-said. Well-written, too.

Everyone please stay good, and healthy too, so we can keep going to movies and writing about whatever inspires or haunts us.

Merry Christmas.

-Dennis

"War is Bush's thing, not global assistance."

Like the war on AIDS, you mean? GWB has pledged over $15 billion to AIDS research globally, more than all other nations combined, I believe. This is only recent contributions, not counting previous contributions.

Further, Kuwait, with a $10 billion surplus (due to huge oil profits), has donated a whopping $2 million to tsunami relief effort. Wow...1/10th of 1% of their surplus. Muslims helping Muslims, boy.

Some people just can't get over a decisive election.

-Dennis

"We don't have to respect each others opinions but we shouldn't deny their rights to express them."

I fail to recognize where anyone's right to express an opinion has been denied on this thread.

I love a good discussion, combative or otherwise, especially when my president is being attacked just for purposes of sport and provocation.

Further, the US military has been deployed to the Indian Ocean to assist in relief efforts. If it weren't for these fine people and their superlative resources, equipment and training, a large part of the physical aid would never reach the folks who need it most. No other country in the world can top the capabilities of our military.

And how about the UN? I hear a task force has been set up in a 5 star hotel to develop a plan for putting a plan together. We all know where a great deal of Oil for Food money went: into Koffi Annan's and his son's pockets.

-Dennis

"I [still] fail to recognize where anyone's right to express an opinion has been denied on this thread."

-Dennis

The obvious choices are, in no particular order:

"Back to the Future" tee shirt.

A "DeLorean" tee shirt.

-Dennis

I notice that Acclaim has an open call for entries for their Spring 2005 contest. After extending the deadline for their fall contest a few times, there hasn't been an announcement of quarters, semi's or winners.

Anyone know what's up? Seems like they should announce the results of one contest before starting a new one.

-Dennis

Barb critiqued two of my scripts and her suggestions for improvements to the LL and synopsis for one of the scripts got me my first read request after I posted the changes on InkTip.com. I highly reccomend her very affordable services and the turn around time is very quick.

-Dennis

I emailed the contest coordinator this afternoon. Will post here when I hear back from him. Still no announcement regarding the 2004 Fall contest, but hey, the 2005 contest is underway!

-Dennis

Their website says winners of the Fall 2004 contest will be announced on February 24, 2005.

-Dennis

Way to go, Barb. I hope you win it!

-Dennis

How long is a "short" film - like those that are entered into festivals?

-DG

Thanks, Randy.

The script is looking like 20 pages in FD format (I'm still writing). I want to direct and produce it, so by default I'm starting to understand the intricacies of getting it into a distributable format.

-DG

Thanks, everyone. Very informative. I think it's gonna be 20 pages and yes, cramming the character development, hook and climax into a short script has been the major challenge. Sometimes I veer off and work on my Crew/Cast list and start thinking about storyboarding, locations and logistics and I want to scream first, finish the script and throw it on InkTip. But first thing's first - finish the script then figure out what's really gonna happen. This story would be fun to direct and produce. Just thirsty for my first attempt at getting "made," Indie-style. -DG

Paula- I will definitely take you're advice. I'm really looking forward to it. It seems like the next logical step for me while still polishing my "long" short and another feature (my sixth). -DG

What is the current standard treatment of sounds in Action Lines? To capitalize or not to capitalize? Thanks!

Thank you.