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Thanks so much, Barb...You've been there for me through thick and thin of every inch of the rewrite process during the past year and your belief in this script never wavered. Congrats to you also in your endeavors which I know will very very soon pay off bigtime!

http://www.xtremescreenwriting.com/

Barb's website - check it out!

Hi...What I discovered when I recently experienced the same problems in working on a new story idea was I hadn't completely "let go" of my first script, which was very passionately written from my heart. I was so "in love" with that script that it ended up hindering me from fully developing my new story and cramped the passion I ultimately discovered I really did have for the new story. I'm happy to say once I recognized this is what was going on, understood it, accepted it (which was very hard!) and truly wanted to move on, the floodgates opened and I wrote with so much zest and yes, passion, on my new story it's now finally completed (well, the first draft) and I'm very pleased with the results. I hope this helps. Good luck!

Congratulations, Eric! You won't find a nicer gal to network with than Barb Doyon. She's great! Best wishes to you.

Congrats to Carolyn Haywood's "Hot Sheet" appearing on page 6 in the May/June issue of "Script Magazine." I have often read of your accomplishments and it was nice putting a face to your name! It's uplifting to read of another's hard work resulting in accomplishments. Congrats again, Carolyn, and best wishes to you!

Eric, I'm both a screenwriter and a mother but of the four-legged kiddies! They always do what they're told (well, most of the time) and don't sass. Thanks for the thoughtful greeting and best wishes to you in your endeavors!

Hi Luke..I also attended Fade In's Pitchfest in May and had a fabulous time! It was my first ever pitch event and while I certainly wasn't lacking in enthusiasm for my scripts and really wasn't nervous about the actual face to face meetings, it was my lack of confidence on how to pitch that could have turned out to be a serious setback. But Barb took the time (and patience!) to coach me and the end result was several read requests for not one but both of my scripts!! I found Fade In's Pitchfest to be an extremely well-organized event filled with key people who could very well jump-start careers. Needless to say, I'm very excited about returning next month and can't wait. Hope to see you there, Luke. P.S. Thanks again, Barb!

Great topic! I have found that email inquiries as a direct result of my own research (HCD, script mags, sites such as Moviebytes and exchanging leads with a screenwriter friend) have resulted in several read requests. I've won or placed high in a handful of screenplay comps but only two of these wins/placements have resulted in reads. Listing on Inktip has also brought several inquiries that turned into reads. And lastly but certainly not least, attending Fade In's Pitchfest this past May netted me several read requests for both of my scripts (too soon for followups) In other words, I haven't waited for things to happen but have gone after reads...now I just need a sale!! Good luck to everyone.

Congrats to Barb Doyon for making the quarters in Scriptapalooza for her script "American Alligator." There were 3600 entries with a little over 300 making the quarters cut - and what a big splash "AA" made in its debut in the competition waters! Right proud of you, Barb - go get 'em in the semis!!

Hi - I'm a BIG noir buff myself and have been waiting for this movie to hit my area but so far it hasn't. Have you seen "Chinatown" also scripted by Towne?

If you can get ahold of the Spring 2006 copy of "Filmmaker" magazine (the magazine for independent film) there is a cover story on Towne and the writing of "Ask the Dust," which he adapted from John Fante's novel. It will answer a lot of your questions and then some.

The magazine's website is www.filmmakermagazine.com in case you can't locate a copy of the mag at your local bookstore. I found mine at Borders.

Good luck!

Hi - The film undoubtedly had a limited release as I've been waiting for it and it never showed up!

Thanks for the heads-up on the DVD - I'll Netflex it and if I like it enough to want to own it, I'll buy it.

Due for release I believe this fall is "The Black Dahlia" and also "Black Dahlia." One is the Brian DePalma film based upon James Ellroy's fictonalized novel loosely based on the real Black Dahlia case. The other is an indie based on the real event.

Also due for release this fall is John Travolta's noir "Lonely Hearts" based upon a true 1940s murder case (or cases as there were several unfortunate victims)

Harold Becker was also working on a Ruth Etting script but I don't know how that is coming along.

At any rate, I'm really hoping these noir films generate heat and re-interest in this genre as they could open doors wide for my own noir script.

Yes, you're right about the book (it was one of many "theory" books all published around the same time!) But I believe the indie production is not based upon this book. I could be mistaken. There is very little info available on it (the indie production)

Brian's pic is of course much more high profile in that Scarlett Johansson, Hilary Swank, Josh Harnett and Aaron Eckhart have lead roles and it's based upon a best-selling author's novel.

"L.A. Confidential" is one of my alltime favorites. I'm looking forward to this resurgance of noir!

Barb Doyon's "American Alligator" advanced to the semis with Scriptapalooza!!! There were over 3600 entries and this is AA's debut in the competition waters - what a big splash! Great going, Barb!!!

Count me in...although I would rather have received an email that I won the contest!!! Good luck to all that entered.

Thanks, Barb. I appreciate your willingness to share and help out your fellow screenwriter. I applaud you!

Hi Linda...Thanks for taking the time for the heads-up! Appreciate it and good luck to you.

Great hearing of another's good news and success! Best wishes to you!

I strongly second Eric's suggestion to contact Barb Doyon. Her website is www.xtremescreenwriting.com

The testimonials on her website plus her own accomplishments speak for themselves.

Thanks, Peter, for the congrats!

I'd like to also congratulate all the semi-finalists. It's a major feat making the cut this far - like Peter said, Barb uses professional (and tough!) readers and she really upped the ante in this contest with the great prize packages that are just what writers need.

So thanks are also in order to Barb.

Now the wait begins for the finalists to be announced the end of this month! :)

Thanks, Eric, best of luck to you also! I feel proud to be included amongst the best. I also echo Eric's comments about Barb's contest - cream of the crop!

Thanks again, Peter! And congrats to you again on your first place Red Inkworks win and also making semis in Barb's Extreme screenwriting contest with not just one but THREE different scripts (2 in Comedy/RomCom and 1 in the Wild Card catergory) Now that's quite an accomplishment.

Also big congrats to Eric Sentell for making semis in Barb's comp with two scripts (Action/Adventure and the Wild Card category) Way to go, you guys!

Good luck to all the semifinalists - can't wait until the finalists are unveiled on the 30th.

Congrats to Cynthia Downs for winning the thriller/horror category AND the Grand Prize with her script "An American Witch Bottle"

This is Barb's 2nd Extreme competition and there were just over 300 entries (she closed the door at 300 but the generous soul she is, waved a couple more in!!)

Cynthia, if you are reading this, way to go!!

Congrats to all the other category winners and finalists - here's hoping that 2007 is our year!

Amen, Terry!

Barb's website is: www.xtremescreenwriting.com

Check out her coverage services - you get a helluva lot for just a fraction of what others charge. Not to mention she is the cream of the crop IMHO. :)

Peter, thought maybe you had gotten into some before dinner vino...and continued on to after dinner too!!

Appreciate the congrats - best wishes to you also on your animated script "Digby" which is a finalist with the International Family Film comp. Be sure to keep us posted! :)

Congrats to Peter Fraser for winning the International Family Film Festival's animation category with his script "Digby."

Way to go, Peter!!

Congrats to the other category winners as well.

John, which event in April is this? I am planning to attend Fade In's 2 day Pitchfest in July. I went to last years and it was fantastic. I also went to their 1 day seminar/1 day pitching event last year in May, but received far more read requests at the 2 day event. Thanks!

Not to derail this thread but since "The Black Dahlia" was mentioned - I was also very disappointed in the Brian DePalma film. I was hoping it would open the doors to more film noir films (beings as I'm marketing my noir thriller spec!!) but I'm afraid this one might have slammed and bolted the doors!! I'm keeping my fingers crossed that John Travolta's upcoming "Lonely Hearts" is a much better film...although the USA opening has been delayed for months. Not sure why? No distributors?

Thanks, Terri. I have a sinking feeling "Lonely Hearts" won't be well-received and another door slammed for this genre! Arrggghhh....!!!

Thanks for the shot in the arm, Terri! Believing in your work DOES play a part in marketing, I know, besides all the other obvious aspects. :)

Hi all -

Personally, I've found the HCD online service a bit frustrating in that (as Terri pointed out) unless you know the name of the prodco, etc. you want to look up, it's a frustrating search. I wish there was a way to scroll through the listings, but unless I just haven't figured it out yet, I don't think there is. What I do is refer to a hard copy (but the one I have is a couple years old - I'm thinking of getting the new one - if you buy them through Amazon/Borders they are around $40 with free shipping) Anyways, I refer to the hard copy and then cross-reference contacts, etc. with the online subscription (as it is updated daily) and go from there. I know this can be expensive and a round-about way of doing things, but it has worked for me (for reads) The jury is still at lunch on sales though!! :)

Hi James -

Barb has read several of my scripts and she provides fast, detailed, extremely helpful and concise feedback that is easy to understand and pinpoints specifics (not general "this doesn't work" without back-up suggestions on how to make it work) I value and trust her opinion so much that nobody (not even family) sees my work until Barb has reviewed them! Barb is also not only a writer herself, but works in the biz.

Barb runs a yearly contest as well...check out the contest feedback on her Moviebytes report card. You can also read up on clients' testimonials on her website www.xtremescreenwriting.com

Good luck and best wishes! :)

Peter & "Digby" have done it again - huge congrats for your 2nd place win in Red Inkworks!! This is a family ANIMATION feature script and proving it can more than hold its own against the dramas, rom-coms, thrillers, horror specs, etc. etc.

Peter - give me a shout-out which comps you are entering "Digby" in and it'll save me entry fees!!

I'm proud of you, friend!

P.S. I just remembered that Peter WON this comp last year with another steller script "Grim Gets a Life"

Really now, Peter...give the rest of us midnight oil-burners a fighting chance here!

Great accomplishments - couldn't be happier for you.

Yes, good luck to both of you and all others making finals. What an honor!!

Be sure to keep us posted... :)

That's what I love about this site...screenwriters sharing and learning! :)

Barb is as honest and fair as the day is long...not to mention she will bend over backwards to help screenwriters. Her reputation and the mountain of respect she has earned speaks for itself.

Barb sabotage her own self-respect for the price of a review??!! As one of my more colorful characters would say, "no f'ing way!"

Amen, Randy!

I'm hoping we can keep things writer-friendly here and remember that this is a WRITERS board to discuss and learn such. The idiotic discord in the past that swung far and wide away from writing is why I (then) hesitated to even contribute - there is enough stress in life than to come here and be ripped apart!! But now I look forward to regularly contributing - it's the only writer's board I do so on. There is another one I visit to hopefully learn from when meaningful questions and more meaningful and helpful answers are offered - but that board is so ridiculous at times I question the maturity of the contributors and their motivations.

Thank you everyone for keeping this board on the right track - the WRITING track!

Best to all! :)

Congrats to Laqueta Lewis for making the quarters in the Writers on the Storm comp with THREE scripts!

Wishing you much success with the next cut! :)

Hi Laqueta -

Thanks so much for the lead (and for thinking of my script) I'll look into this.

I also noticed my script was sandwiched between a couple of yours in the Red Inkworks top finalists list!! What an honor for both of us, huh? And for the others on this board that also finaled (Peter Fraser took 2nd!!) Larry is a super nice guy - and his right-on feedback isn't too shabby either!

That's what I love about this board...writers encouraging writers and looking out for each other!!

Best to you and all others pursuing our hopes, dreams and goals -

Jean :)

Welcome, Rachel!

I checked my online directories (IMDbPro, HCD and Script Pimp) and can't find a thing on them. I've never heard of them.

Anybody else have any info for Rachel?

How did they come about requesting your script? A comp win/placement? Scriptblaster type services? Inktip? I've had a few read requests from small prodcos who saw my Inktip listings but unfortunately not one of them have responded to my follow-up inquiries. All I can say is -- their loss!! Good luck to you!

Haven't received mine yet, but should hear something next week.

Laqueta, will you receive your feedback next week also or after the winners are announced?

Good luck again! Keep us posted!

Hi Brad - For years I used Microsoft Word and never had one complaint otherwise, but I was very careful to make sure that my scripts were properly formatted. Then a writer/friend convinced me to FINALLY switch to Final Draft and I must admit I love it!! It is so much easier writing and not having to think about making sure I was staying within the proper format.

I agree with Laqueta that as long as your scripts look professional, work with you have/can afford. Good luck! :)

I haven't received my feedback yet. It is supposed to be sent out during this week, I'm assuming snail mail as it was last year. For some reason I thought it was being emailed to us this year, but I didn't keep Jim's email announcement so I'm not positive.

Laqueta, do you have the email that Jim sent? Do you know if the feedback is mailed to us or do we receive it in an email?

Thx!

Hi Jen -

Is the first announcement the semi-finalists at the end of July as your web states or do you announce quarters? If so, when will you announce the quarters?

Thx! :)

Thanks, Laqueta! :)

The email that Jim sent last week sez:

"We hope that our script analyses (for those who entered through CI) or mini feedback (for those who entered WOTS directly) will help point the way towards making all your scripts as good as they can be. Look for those mini-feedback forms to go out within the next week."

So that would be this week. Anybody's guess as to whether it will go out via email or snail mail. I'm hoping email so we can get it faster.

Good luck to everybody who made the cut! Or if not - as is the case with me - hopefully the feedback will provide some helpful pointers besides the obvious that all readers opinions are subjective.

Hi all -

Walter brought up many great points. I have Final Draft 7.1.2 (compatible for a PC or Mac) and it offers tons of features that I haven't even explored yet.

One feature I do really like is being able to automatically save my script as a pdf. file with or without a title page - it's easy attaching it in an email to interested parties. Also there is a feature where you can have your script read back to you and while the voices are kinda monotone, they do at least offer some range as far as male/female, older/younger, etc. and this is invaluable in hearing your words come alive especially if you do not have anybody handy to read your script outloud.

I'm not a paid/professional FD endorser - I just know I like it! I paid $159 plus tax.

I'm sure there are others here who use other screenwriting software and can offer their opinions.

Hope this helps - good luck! :)

Hi all -

I emailed WOTS and asked about the mini-forms...they will be emailed to us in about a week.

Also, if anyone here also entered The Writers Place (they just announced finalists) and did not make the cut, they will email you a few words of feedback by request only.

www.xtremescreenwriting.com

Barb's eagerly-anticipated 3rd annual screenwriting comp is open and accepting entries.

Complete details are on her web (see web address above)

Good luck to all who enter (including me!) :)

Ditto...appreciated and thanks! :)

Another round of applause to Laqueta for making the semis with TWO scripts in the Writers on the Storm comp!

That's great - best wishes for seeing your name again in the finals! :)

Thx, Laqueta! I still have goosebumps! :)

Your words mean a lot to me from someone who has been in the winners circle himself!! :)

"Eric..." Meant to add your name to my last post! :)

Thx, Heather! :)

Peter & Randy...thx much for the kind words and encouragement. Means a lot and is very much appreciated. Thx again everyone!! :)

Hi...Received my confirmations also a few weeks ago via email although I entered via snail mail.

Looks like entries are up from last year (4899 last year according to their web)

I have 3 scripts entered (crime noir thriller, crime drama and family drama) Who else entered and which genres?

Good luck to all who have entered! :)

Hi Terri - Please accept my heartfelt condolences at the loss of your Isabel.

I have shared my life including all the many ups and downs with my animals since I was a kid and I really feel for you.

Take care -

Jean :)

Laqueta's on a roll with her script "Rasputin" - it also made the top 10% (quarters) with Blue Cat's comp.

As always, congrats and good luck in the semis!

Jean :)

Randy, I'm going to keep your professor story in mind as I have a tendancy to work a script to death and not want to let it go!

Thankfully an old dog DOES learn as I've gotten better about this with each successive script, although I must admit that when re-reading even scripts that have won/placed in comps I'll find a word here or there I want to change. BUT I DON'T. I keep in mind what Barb Doyon has told me -- finish the script and when it's received good reviews don't change another word unless you're being paid for it!!

Thanks for sharing your professor story, Randy! :)

Thx, Laqueta!

Best wishes to you also! :)

Thx, Peter! :)

Thx for the info, Eric. Sounds like serious business especially with contributions from Barb. I have so many screenwriting books as it is, but I'm definitely going to look into getting this one. :)

Thx, Terri! :)

HUGE congrats to Laqueta for making the top 10 finals (out of 947 scripts) in the Writers on the Storm comp.

Wow - great accomplishment! I'm proud of you, girl!! :)

Great going, Leslie! Keep us posted on how things progress... :)

Just received word that Peter Fraser made the quarters cut with TWO scripts!! There were over 3400 entries with 870 making quarters.

Whoopie!! HUGE congrats, Peter! Both are previous contest winners - keeping my fingers crossed for you, but I don't really think that will be necessary!!

Semis announced end of July :)

Best wishes to all who entered!

Thanks, Peter and Laqueta! :)

PAGE is rapidly becoming a very respected comp (look at the entry totals for a "younger" comp) and their list of interested parties requesting even the quarters scripts is impressive.

Best wishes to everyone! :)

GREAT news and congrats, Mary Ellen, Michael and Martin!

Email Jennifer at PAGE and ask her which scripts and in which categories (if multiple) they advanced in. She'll get right back to you if she's online.

Good luck everybody! :)

"Serena's Thunder" - family

"Slade" - drama

"Lady Jazz" - thriller

Thanks again, Laqueta! :)

Whoopie, D., Matthew and Mara!

D. and Matthew - which category did you quarter in? Feel free to list the title(s) too! :)

Laqueta, did you say you quartered in historical/bio? :)

Sounds like HUGE congrats are in order for you, Laqueta! You are tackling tough genres but making big splashes in the comp waters and that says a whole lot about you and your writing. Very inspiring! :)

Santa and N - great that you advanced!

Randy, thanks for the heartfelt congrats to all of us.

Now the nailbiting wait until July 30th...! :)

N - Here is some info taken from the Nicholl's web re: the judging process.

Q. Could you offer a timetable as to when things happen in the Nicholl competition?

A. Here it is:

early January – text for the new year’s application forms is finalized.

January - late April – the online application process is opened to applicants; application forms are distributed to anyone who has requested one. They are also available on the Nicholl page -- www.oscars.org/nicholl/ -- at the Academy's Web site.

January - May 1 -- entries are accepted. Entries must be postmarked by May 1.

approximately six to eight weeks after an entry is received -- we send a letter to each entrant acknowledging her entry.

January - mid-July -- first-round judging

late July -- all entrants are notified as to their status in the competition. Quarterfinalists are notified.

late August -- Semifinalists are notified.

early October -- Finalists are notified and asked to submit supporting materials.

late October -- Fellowship recipients are notified and announced.

mid-November -- Nicholl Awards Dinner.

Q. The Academy hires and pays readers to judge the scripts?

A. The first round readers and quarterfinal round judges are paid. Not all that much, mind you, but enough to eat away most of the entrance fee.

Q. Who are the first round readers?

A. First round readers and quarterfinal round judges are all involved in the industry, but none of them are members of the Academy, which signifies that they haven't achieved the credits and status necessary to become a member. There is a good mix of people -- more writers than anything else, many of whom also read to pay their bills; a number of producers and several development execs; several of the readers work in development or in production. The key things we consider in hiring readers are their skill and experience in reading and judging scripts.

Actually, in terms of age and backgrounds, other than their industry connections, they resemble entrants to the competition.

Q. What are these readers looking for in scripts?

A. The readers are told that we're looking for the best scripts. The best screenwriters. The best stories. The best craft. We want them to identify writers who tell a good story and tell it well.

I also let the readers know that budget or commercial potential shouldn't matter in the least. If only Steven Spielberg or James Cameron could produce a script because the special effects alone would push it over $200 million dollars, so be it. If the script were darker than DRUGSTORE COWBOY or TRAINSPOTTING, that's all right too. We're searching for the best scripts and the best screenwriters, and commercial considerations of any sort should not affect the reader's assessment.

Each reader is given the same instructions -- to seek the best scripts, those which tell the most interesting stories and tell them well -- and those instructions are reinforced during the readers' multiple visits to the office. Good writers. Good craft. Good stories.

Q. What are the genres of the scripts entered in the Nicholl competition by Fellowship winners?

A. Genres of Nicholl Fellows' Entry Scripts -- 1989 - 2006

action / adventure -- 7 animated comedy -- 1 comedy -- 5 romantic comedy -- 3 comedy drama – 8 coming of age drama -- 6 drama – 25 romantic drama fantasy -- 2 horror -- 3 science fiction – 2 thriller / crime / caper -- 14 war / terrorists -- 9 western -- 3

Thx Linda! :)

Congrats, A. and Bob! That's great news! And Bob, with your first script, eh? Wow! A. - your script title sounds familiar. I think I've seen it listed amongst winners/placements in other comps.

Here is info taken off the PAGE web re: their judging process.

Judging Procedure While many screenwriting contests ask students and volunteers to judge their entries, the PAGE Awards competition is judged entirely by Hollywood professionals. The First Round of the contest is judged by the same industry readers who cover scripts for all the major Hollywood studios, agencies and production companies. And as your script progresses through the various levels of competition, it will be reviewed by increasingly influential judges, including producers, agents, and development executives with credits at such places as Twentieth Century Fox, Sony Pictures, Paramount, Disney, Warner Brothers, CBS, HBO and NBC. These are the people who can truly open doors for undiscovered writers.

Among our past judges: screenwriters Robert Baird (MONSTERS, INC.) and William Massa (ANACONDAS), television story editors Janice Jordan (ROSEANNE) and Susan Van Allen (EVERYBODY LOVES RAYMOND), literary managers Colin O'Reilly (First Entertainment) and John Orlando (Circle of Confusion), production and development execs Danielle Butler (Sander/Moses Productions), Jesus di Sica (Buena Vista International), Scott Farrell (Midnight Pictures), and many more.

Judging is anonymous. Your script will be assigned a number and the judges will identify your entry by title and number only.

FIRST ROUND

All entries will be reviewed by industry script readers. The judges will evaluate scripts in the categories of their individual interest and expertise, and scripts that score in the top 25% will move into the Quarter-Final Round of competition.

QUARTER-FINAL ROUND

The Quarter-Finalists' scripts will be reviewed by professional screenwriters and screenwriting consultants. The judges will evaluate scripts in the categories of their individual interest and expertise, and their scores will determine the twenty-five Semi-Finalists in each category.

SEMI-FINAL ROUND

The Semi-Finalists' scripts will be reviewed by Hollywood literary agents, managers and development executives. The judges will evaluate scripts in the categories of their individual interest and expertise, and their scores will determine the top ten Finalists in each category.

FINAL ROUND

A panel of film and television producers and Hollywood production executives will conduct the Final Round of judging. Their scores will determine the Gold, Silver, and Bronze Prize Winners in each category, as well as the competition's Grand Prize Winner.

CRITERIA

In each round of competition, scripts will be evaluated on a ten-point scale. Entries will be given a score of 1 to 10 for each of the following elements:

Premise/Concept The idea behind the story. What the movie is about. The "hook."

Format/Typos Standard spec screenplay or teleplay format (12 pt. Courier font, correct margins, etc.), as well as spelling, punctuation, grammar, and usage.

Structure The framework of the script. Effective use of three-act (most common), odyssey, linear or non-linear story progression.

Plot The actions, events, conflicts, and turning points that propel the story forward. How the story unfolds (points for originality/unpredictability).

Pacing The timing of the action, revelation of plot elements and character development.

Characters Personalities that are distinctive, compelling, multi-layered, and unpredictable. A protagonist and antagonist with clear and active goals.

Dialogue Voices that are natural, succinct, and unique to each character. Use of language that effectively reveals character and moves the story forward.

Theme The underlying message of the story as revealed through plot, dialogue, and visual elements.

Style/Tone Overall quality of the writing. Narrative that is distinct, cinematic, and effectively conveys the mood or "feel" of the movie.

Commercial Potential Audience appeal and box-office potential. In each round the scores will be tallied and the scripts with the highest combined scores will move on to the next round of judging.

NOTIFICATION

Contestants who advance to the Quarter-Final Round will be notified of their status by e-mail on or before July 15, 2007. The lists of Semi-Finalists, Finalists and Winners will be posted on our website on the following dates:

SEMI-FINALISTS will be announced on July 30, 2007

FINALISTS will be announced on August 30, 2007

WINNERS will be announced on September 15, 2007 Prizes and awards will be mailed to the Winners within six weeks of the final announcement.

Thanks much, Peter & Laqueta!!

I'm heading down to LA tomorrow for the FadeIn Pitchfest - wish me luck! :)

Anybody else going?

Hi Laqueta - Yes this is my third time down! Went down twice last year. I have nothing but the highest praise for the FadeIn Pitchfest. It was professionally run and just an overall great opportunity to meet with agents, prodcos and managers who I would otherwise have had no chance of making face-to-face contact with! I had several immediate requests for hard copies of my work (which I DID have onhand!) and also several requests for scripts sent via pdf. I had no pitching experience whatsover prior to the first Pitchfest and for me it was literally sink or swim - special thanks to Barb Doyon for all her patience!! :)

This year I have three scripts in three different genres to pitch - keep your fingers crossed for me!!

Thanks, N !

Keeping my fingers crossed for you too - maybe we'll bump into each other. :)

Congrats to you also, Michael and Kevin! :)

Count me in.

Like D Jay, I was also a Nicholls quarterfinalist (although a million years ago) and received a handful of read requests that although they ultimately ended up petering out, at least someone reached out to me for a change rather than vice versa.

I'm hanging in there again this year with 3 scripts entered.

Also saw on Scriptapalooza's web that their quarters will be announced on July 30th. And throw in PAGE's semis being announced also on July 30th and the possibility that we'll receive our Nicholls letters next week has me very hopeful that the end of July is going to be quite some week for some of us (make that all of us!)

Good luck, everybody! :)

Yes, I do remember that little gold Oscar! Guess where my eyeballs will be going when I get the letters. :)

Good luck, James and Justin! I saw your listing on WinningScripts and your script sounds hilarious! :)

Thanks, Santa, for the heads up!

No, Ron, haven't received my letters yet. Hopefully this coming week... :)

Whoopie - letters are on their way!

Read on DoneDealPro where an LA writer has received his letter (he made the quarters!)

Good luck everybody! :)

P.S. PAGE semis announced tomorrow! Scriptapalooza on Tuesday!

Three dinks for me...sure, it's disappointing, but strangely enough, I'm actually more excited that one of my scripts entered here made the semis with PAGE than if it had made quarters with Nicholls (make sense?) And this is not sour grapes speaking. Sure, Nicholls can open doors, but I've never wanted my work to be strictly remembered as "it's a Nicholls script" - I'd rather have it/them be known as "a Jean Hunter script."

Best wishes to all who advanced and I mean that sincerely! :)

Congrats, Matthew!

I'm in too - "Serena's Thunder" in the family division.

Best wishes to everyone who advanced! :)

Laqueta, I just saw your name listed too for "El Abogado" in action/adventure! Whoopie! :)

Good luck, Laqueta. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for you. :)

P.S. And yes, I've started a new script! :)

Whoopie! Congrats to Laqueta for making the quarters with "Rasputin" and to Michael Spohr with "Words Never Heard" - wow, you two! I'm very impressed!! Over 3500 entries too!

Sorry if I missed anybody else - congrats to you as well! Good going! :)

Congrats, Paula! :)

Congrats, Steven! :)

What genre is your script?

Cool, Steven! One of my entries was a crime drama as well. I'm very happy to hear that yours advanced. It's a tricky genre to get down pat and sounds like you are on your way!

Best of luck...keep us posted! :)

Simon, I hear what you're saying! You have some sage advice, glad you chimed in.

I have a noir thriller that literally either readers "get" or "don't get" (it is a non-linear story and I think this throws some readers - I've gotten slaps on the hands for not writing it in an "abc" fashion!!!) Needless to say, of course the ones that "get" it advance it up the ladder and the ones that "don't", well...had one tell me to throw it in the trash, it will never go anywhere. Hmmm...I don't think so!

Laqueta, you are so positive and encouraging! It's always a pleasure hearing from you!

I'm also entered in all the comps Laqueta mentioned (plus Simon's Slamdance) Hard to say how I'll fit in with what they are looking for (three different scripts and three different genres) But I agree with Laqueta that Red Inkworks is a real good one and the feedback notes are fantastic!

Take care, everybody, and good luck! :)

Thanks, Peter. Sorry about your dinks. I've had my share lately too - Scriptapalooza, Sundance and Nicholls--ouch. My skin is getting tougher though!! :)

I'm entered also, Michael. If you find out when the letters go out, please share the info! I thought I received my letter last year sometime in August (wishful thinking!) But I think Laqueta's right. It probably was more into September.

Good luck everybody - I'm rooting for all of us! :)

Hi John - I'm not sure if I'm considered a "new" face or not but I thank you for the welcome. :)

Kind of you also, Randy, for the welcome aboard! I've always enjoyed reading the Moviebytes boards and quite honestly was a "lurker" for some time before I drummed up my courage and took the plunge to participate. Glad to be aboard!

Thank you again! :)

Hi Laqueta - Thanks for sharing the update. Hopefully we'll get our letter soon! :)

I received an email from BlueCat announcing the winner. They also said if you haven't received your script analyst yet to email them at scriptanalysis@bluecatscreenplay.com

Hi Gregory -

Sounds good to me.

Were you able to attend the FadeIn Pitchfest last month in LA? There were several prodcos and some managers and agents there looking for family films and comedies (I'm assuming this is also a comedy or has comedic overtones?)

Larger than Life (Gary Ross' prodco - "Seabiscuit") comes to mind. They were looking for strictly family. I pitched my family drama to them and although the CE loved the pitch, unfortunately they aren't looking for anymore horse movies!

Good luck! :)

Excellent!

I do like this leaner, tighter and brighter logline.

Good luck to you! :)

P.S. I also zoned in on and like that you added "uplifting" as well!

Martin, I've always heard that releases are really more for the benefit/protection of the "other side" (not the writer's benefit)

But on the other hand, the majority of the prodcos who have read my work have done so without a release.

Not sure what to advise you in this case other than--as Laqueta advised-- please make sure your work is registered with the WGA and/or copyrighted with the Library of Congress.

I may be overdoing it, but I always do both. :)

Good luck to you!

Hi Simon - I just noticed your name listed on The Indie Gathering's web as the 1st place winner in the comedy category for your script "Manifesto."

Wow, that's great! Congrats!

I also placed in two categories and won the family category (features)

Did you attend the awards ceremony over the weekend? Do you know which script placed best overall feature?

Again, congrats and best wishes marketing your work! :)

Well put and just common sense advice - thank you! :)

Hi Simon - The overall winners are listed on the Indie Gathering's web.

Sorry to say neither of our scripts made that cut :(

Onward and upward... :)

Hi everybody!

I received an email from Greg Beal today stating that--due to time constraints--he wasn't able to leave any personal notes on the letters that went out as he usually does but.... (cue for drum roll please) ...my family drama "Serena's Thunder" made the top 10% entered!! Just missed quarters.

WHOOPIE!!! :)

Congrats, Lisa!

My family drama "Serena's Thunder" made the cut as well.

Anybody else? :)

Thanks for sharing and the heads up, Paula. :)

Good question, Lisa. I've often wondered the same thing. I would assume some do, but I don't know for a fact.

On this same subject, there are some comps that state in the rules and regulations that they will read up to page 30 (or 20 or whatever) and if the reader is taken by the story up to that point, will read on.

Hmmmm....

I personally feel when I have paid full price to enter, my script should be read from FADE IN to FADE OUT. The majority of the comps seem to be $40 and up nowadays. Times that by how many comps you want to enter (and the clumps of same or close to each other deadlines!) Plus if you have more than one script you want to get out there...a lot of $$ to not even get a full reading.

But who really knows if your script is read from beginning to end especially when feedback is not offered and you don't make any cut. There's a fair share also of comps that once your check is cashed, you never hear from them. And of course the ones that state a notification date and that comes and goes...

Sorry if I've rambled on your thread, Lisa.

Any readers out there care to shed some light on Lisa and my concerns? Thx! :)

Thanks, all! :)

Hi Martin - Congrats to you as well!

I agree with Orlanda - great seeing so many Moviebyters making the cuts!

Whoopie! :)

Yes...! :)

Thanks, Eric. Gee, if only you produced...! :)

I must honestly give a big "thumbs up" to this comp and not just on account that I made the finals and received fantastic feedback notes (well, of course that's important) but it's obvious they read the entire script from beginning to end. Their meaningful notes referenced many scenes and characters and tiny details that only a thorough reading and understanding of the story could make possible. Plus Acclaim is backed by an impressive list of prodcos, etc. eager to read the scripts that made the semis and upward. :)

Matthew - we made it to the finals!!

Did anybody else advance? Please share!! :)

Hi Paula - Wow! That's great. I'm thrilled for you.

I'm putting out positive energy that we see your name on the finals list! :)

Thanks, Peter. :)

And Matthew, I'm keeping my fingers crossed for both of us!

Hi Heather - Received my letters also. 2nd round with one script, the other script was gonged. :)

No, I'm not planning to go. I went to Pitchfest last month and then I'm going down to LA again for the Moondance awards ceremony in another week. Unfortunately airfare, etc. adds up. But from what I've heard, it's quite a show! :)

Another worthwhile comp that also thoroughly reads scripts plus gives very honest and detailed and extremely helpful feedback is Red Inkworks. I wholeheartedly recommend this comp - an added bonus is their feedback is part of the entry fee. Larry and his readers are the nicest people you can encounter and truly care about writers and advancing their careers. You can't say that about every comp these days.

Ditto, Martin.

I received feedback from Script Savvy that was pretty much spot-on with feedback I've received from other comps that "got" the story. I was so impressed I went ahead and entered another script (just making their deadline!) and I'm awaiting feedback on that one now. Based upon just the one feedback, I believe Script Savvy is another up-and-coming comp to watch for.

Extreme and A Feeding Frenzy are two others that come to mind that are professionally run - their feedback alone is worth their weight in gold. And the prize packages aren't too shabby either! :)

Congrats, N! :)

Thank you! :)

Sorry, Lisa! But don't feel bad - from what I've read on another board, they use college kids to read our entries.

Yikes!

Anybody enter? Their web has listed the "consider" and quarterfinalists. Semis to be announced on or before October 1st.

Good luck to all who entered! :)

Welcome, John!

Thanks for the info on the Movie Script comp. I thought I was about finished with comps for the year but this one looks interesting.

Congrats on your accomplishments too.

Here's hoping we all advance to win, place or show! :)

Hi Ben -

In late July I emailed them to find out if the notification date changed as they had extended the deadline. This is their response:

"Finalists announced August 13th - Winners announced August 20th"

Then when I checked their web, it was gone and in its place is the current note that they hope to have the new web up 9/1 announcing winners and finalists. Last I checked, the new web is not up yet nor are the winners listed.

Anybody else enter or have updates?

Hi all - No, I didn't receive an email from them. I was checking their web for updates and saw that they had listed the "consider" list and the quarters. Then right after I started this thread, they put up the quarters on Moviebytes (I mean literally minutes!) I entered by snail mail on the deadline and my check was finally cashed just last week. However I did receive the SAS postcard I always enclose with snail-mail entries and I also sent it with delivery confirmation receipt and according to both, it was received a few days after I mailed it. All I can assume (and hope!) is that it WAS read...darn subjective readers!! :)

I didn't enter...but good luck to those that did and made the semis! :)

Hi Matthew & John - Yes, I received the finalists letter. This contest is so exciting and I really believe it can open doors. I'm keeping my fingers, toes and eyeballs crossed for my other two scripts as well - they made it as far as the quarters and might generate interest based upon what PAGE's email stated.

Whoopie! :)

Congrats on both Austin & Moondance, Julie! :)

Gonged in the quarters...

Best of luck to those that are going on.

Whoopie, Lisa!

Great going! :)

Hi Brian -

I've attended 3 so far. The first one was last year (in May) and it was the same type as this one - 1 day of seminars and 1 day of actual pitches. I went back in July (last year) for the 2 solid days of pitching and much prefer that event. Besides your scheduled pitches, you can wait in the "standby" line and get more pitches in.

I also attended the 2 day event this year in July.

Great event and in my opinion very well run and organized - but I must admit I am disappointed in the lack of prodco follow-through.

For instance, I had several prodcos express interest in my work and said they would contact me with a release to read the script(s) (I had hard copies available but most don't want to take a script right then and then as they would need a U-Haul to lug everything back to the office) I gave them my card with complete contact info. To date I have heard nothing despite my sending "thank you" cards and leaving a phone message.

However, on the brighter side, some did prefer accepting a hard copy on the spot (although I heard the "now" thing to do is offer a disc with your scripts loaded on it - much lighter than lugging around scripts but I'm not sure if many would want to open the file - viruses ??) Anyways, I'm now in the process of following up and keeping my fingers crossed.

These events add up $$ wise especially if you don't live in the area and either fly or drive down and then stay at the hotel - but I look at this as an investment and it will pay off!

I'm not going to the one in October, but would go again next year (I prefer the 2 solid days of pitching) if I'm still unsold!!

Good luck! :)

Hi Julie -

I did attend this year's Moondance awards ceremony but in all honesty I felt it was not as well-organized as last year's event (which I also attended but it was held at a different locale)

This year's ceremony was held at one of the cinemas on the Universal Studios City Walk - not a good choice as the lighting and sound was not first class (which even the event coordinator apologized for)

The ceremony was to start at 5:00 and end at 7:00 - due to delays and standing in line for a half hour we were finally seated but there more delays. The event started around 5:45 and ended approximately an hour or a little less later.

The awards categories are also somewhat confusing (there are no 1st, 2nd and 3rd) and in no particular order. I was looking forward to the announcement for the feature screenplays for kids category (which I entered) but I never did hear my category announced (although there was a winner in the short screenplays for kids category) so I'm assuming they lumped my kids script in with the other categories.

There was a handful of celebrities announcing the awards - Robert Culp, Ken Weatherwax (Puggsley from the old "Adams Family" TV show - you'd never know it was him though!!) and Quentin Tarantino's dad Tony to name a few...but although they announced the winners they did not present the award and there were no acceptance speeches. It was discouraging to see that roughly 95% of the winners did not attend.

Hopefully next year's will flow more smoothly and there will be finalists in attendance to accept their awards and bask in the applause.

P.S. Oops - just re-read your message and you asked about the festival itself (I think it ran for 3 days) I don't know how that ran as I only attended the awards ceremony...anybody else attend? :)

Hi Julie -

Congrats to you also for making the finals! :)

No, I didn't make any contacts - the seating was at the City Walk Cinemas in one of the theatres (where you would view a movie) No tables, just regular movie house chairs. And the theatre was less than half filled.

I did talk to one filmmaker who came all the way to the event from Tel Aviv and went home with nothing other than the satisfaction that her film made the finals. There really wasn't an opportunity to network - after the conclusion everybody scattered to the four winds.

Last year's awards ceremony was held at a posh restaurant/lounge in Beverly Hills with "entertainment" provided by George Lopez and Phyllis Diller - a first class affair very much enjoyed and well-attended.

Way to go, John! You must be on cloud nine! Very happy and excited for you - as Julie said, may wide and prosperous doors open for you! :)

Thanks, Julie.

Big congrats to John who won the whole thing--wow!! I hope many doors open for him. :)

Hey John!

Congrats for making the quarters! You're on a roll...hope it opens doors.

Best of luck with the next round! :)

Yes, big congrats to you as well, Laqueta! Saw your name listed several times.

Hope all is well - haven't heard from you in awhile.

John, you are a class act!

Onward and upward! :)

Hi Matthew -

Sincere congrats to you as well! Yes, making any cut in this comp is an accomplishment.

I also received an email from one of my judges who wants to take all three of my scripts to a manager/prodco - whoopie!

Thanks to Jen at PAGE for quickly forwarding this on to us! :)

Mine had a horse but was only good for a "51"

Awaiting notes on my other script - that one has a dog which is man's best friend - hopefully a scriptreader's too. :)

I've always believed that PAGE is one of the comps to watch for and produces results. Considering it's only a few years old, it is huge strides ahead (in my book) than the majority of other comps in many aspects. I think one is having Jen Berg as the coordinator. This lady sincerely cares for writers and sends out personal emails even on Sundays!

John, your script sounds very interesting. Is this your first script? I would imagine a tremendous amount of research went into your subject matter. Congrats again! :)

Thanks, John.

Please keep us in the loop with your SW adventures - I'm sure there will be many doors opening for you with such a prestigious win! Have your feet touched the ground yet?! :)

Unless Larry is running things differently this year, in the past he lists the top 50 finalists on the notification date without any prior announcements. There are no quarterfinalists or semis...just the finalists ranging from the winners at 1st, 2nd and 3rd place all the way to 50th place.

Maybe a "2nd rounder" is something new this year?

Hi Don -

Check their website - look on the left sidebar for the '07 updates and click on that. It will tell you how far along they are on sending out feedback.

Good luck! :)

Quoted from another board...

"Will try to get QF info out by the end of the month. Semifinalist announcement will be at the end of the first week in October.

Jim Mercurio"

Ditto John & others...my "dream" hasn't happened yet, but I feel it in my creaky bones that it's coming. I have no choice but to learn mucho patience in this crazy biz!

Best wishes to you and all the rest of us on achieving our dreams and goals! :)

Bravo, Lisa!

Good luck in the next nail-biting round! :)

I figured they would have to postpone announcements as the deadline was rapidly approaching and the last feedback was sent out on July 19th (according to their web) I'm waiting for feedback on the second script I submitted. Will be interesting to see how it stacks up against my other script (which I've already received feedback on)

Good luck to everybody who entered. :)

THANK YOU, everyone!

To say I'm still in shock is an understatement. But it's a delicious kind of shock! :)

I appreciate the kind words - one of the reasons why I love and support this board. :)

P.S. Big congrats to Peter Fraser for taking 4th (he told me in an email) with an earlier draft of a hilarious comedy which I've had the honor of reading - thanks, Peter, for not entering the new draft as it's a sure winner in my book!! :)

Thanks much, Todd & D Jay! :)

Here's what I found...congrats to all who made this cut. I see a lot of familiar names!! :)

THE 2007 SCREENWRITING EXPO SCREENPLAY COMPETITION QUARTERFINALISTS

The 2007 Screenwriting Expo Screenplay Competition received more than 3000 scripts this year: 211 Television Scripts, 350 Shorts and almost 2500 Feature Screenplays. We want to thank all of our entrants for helping us make this the biggest Expo Competition ever.

We are proud to announce the quarterfinalists as well as the top feature scripts.

Congratulations to all who advanced.

Semifinalists and winners will be posted by October 9.

Television Quarterfinalists

Battlestar Galactica - Old Soldiers by Brice Parker Boston Legal - Boy Interrupted by Hilliard Guess Cold Case - Smooth Criminal by John McKinzey Criminal Minds - Trophy by Drew Traglia CSI NY - Bull and Bear by Cameron Morris Curb Your Enthusiasm - Brand New Car by Pat Kiely Desperate Housewives - The First Time She Got Paid For It by Ryan Harris & Brian Lubocki Entourage - The Big Apple by William Park Entourage - Vince’s Big Break by David Martin Cohen Entourage - Superhero by Wayne Chiang Family Guy - Kill Your Vegetables by Ryan Harris & Brian Lubocki Family Guy - No Holds Bored by John Cordova & Josh Gorden House - Blame by Ealeana Ostrem House - Blood Feud by Y. Shireen Razack House - Make It Work by Kristopher Michel House - Two Certainties by Michael Patrick Sullivan King of the Hill - Trouble From Down Under by Emma Rigney Lost - The Road by Frederick Kim Medium - You Say Tornado by Becca Smith My Name Is Earl - Guru Larry by Casie Fox My Name Is Earl - Labeled a Carousel Barker a Pedophile by Rebecca Howland Scrubs - My Boss’ Boss’ Boss by Deron Sedy The Closer - Dead Man Not Walking by Dick Belsky The Office - Anger Mural by Adam Sass The Office - April Fools by Benjamin Darrin The Office - Childhood Obesity by Brock Ruess The Office - Company Picnic by Tracy Reilly The Office - Happy Earth Day, Dwight! by Rod Pulido Ugly Betty - Ay, Black Betty by Jane Mountain Will & Grace - Nose Wide Shut by Eric A. Klee

Short Screenplay Quarterfinalists

Angels Of The Mohawk Mall by Xaque Gruber Cages by Kyle Michel Sullivan Convenience Store by Michelle Auda Cut by Arthur D. Summers Daniel’s Letter From Heaven by Kristin Johnson Don’t Mind The Sun by Jacob Wynn Fixer by Stephen Kunc Heaven Help Us by Josh Gilbert Just Hungry James M.Mullin Mascot by Beth McMurray Nowhere by Dennis Shutty One Box Each by Kit Conners Recipe For Raising The Dead by Milly Sanders Revisiting the Ritual by Perry Lueders Saul and Paul by Addison A.A. Bhuyan Scenario by Joey Fidler Stranger by Jennifer Razon Sunflowers by Jessica Scalise The Dealers’ Tale by FrankThurmond The End by Jason Siciliano The Pool Contest by Troels Jacob Hundtofte The Pool Party by Sean J.S. Jourdan The Rollerblader by R. M. Jones The Tale of Griffo Chubbs by WesTeasdale The Value Engine by Ed Stahr The Ward by Douglas Stark The White Corner by Terri Lubaroff The Winemaker’s Wife by Caroline Carrigan Uncirclelight by Donovan Fletcher Unholy Encounter by Allan Amenta Virgin Wanted by Casey Geisen Welcome Home Soldier by Michael Wheeler

Feature Screenplay Quarterfinalists

25 Lbs. by Kenan Minkoff 400 Yards Under Cleveland by Jonathan Reedholm 53 Hours in Harpers Ferry by David Sabbath A Better Tomorrow by Michael A. Weiss A Criminal Action by Harold Brown Adrift by Mel Melcer Afraid to Shoot Strangers by Andrew Davie Alias Bonn by John Bain Alma Road by Donna Maree McInerney Alpha by Timothy Miller Alpha One by Brian Trotter Amlith by Kirk Faulkner Angel’s Wing by Alan W. Johnson ATM by Adam Farhi & Darin Cerreto Bad Rap by Mark Grisar & Marcus Howard Baddest Troop Alive by Steve Hauser Ball and Chained by Kaisa Ajaye Balls by K. Ray Thomas Balsawood by Trai Cartwright Bare by Kevin Lee Miller Beyond Valor by Michael J. Kuzenka Blood Rush by Kevin Campbell Bloodlines by William S.Teal Blue Motel by Ted Campbell Boat People by David Kane Bogie’s Falcon by Ryan Condal Book of Shadows by Alan Lavender Born In The Rain by Ian Goh Hsien Jun Bridezilla vs. Deer by Colin Costello Camp Fire by Kris White Canaries by Craig Cambria Cargo by Cyrus Shepard Cartoon Devils by Russell Lauron Changing Billy by Yvonne Borgogni Che Bella Vista by Patricia Sorge Peragine Chevy Refugees by Jason Doty Child of the Sky by Benedek Varsanyi Chill Out by Clarence Hammond Cinephile by Robin Warder Clockwork by Michael Lea Comic/Life by Jean M. Villefranche Confirmation by Adam Vorenkamp Contemporary Insanity by Jennifer Williams & Seth Kupchick Courtroom Queens by Keith Dussell Crow's End by Colin Maguire Cumberland’s Gold by Dirk Eichhorst Daniel 12:4 by Christopher Evans Dead Men Riding by Jimmy Lui Deadly Beautiful by Frank V. Furino Decius by Jordan Dale Demon Hunt by David Gross Deserted by Ziba Shadjaani Digging Beau by Julie Anne Wight Dr. Strangeweed by John McKinzey Dutch Act by Robert Rosenbaum Dying Changes You by David Wheeler Escape From Biology by Joanne Watson Fahrenheit 2081 by Scott Hawthorne Faithful by Dennis Luu Fat Love by Robert Bellsola Fixing Emma by Heidi Hornbacher Flying Tigers by Vincent Ho Foggy Joe by Richard Guimond & Linda L. Cordeiro Frame Up by Jon-Paul Nery Frank by Jennifer Chang Freak by Jonathan W. Harnisch Gamemasters by Matthew Gray & Phil Daniel Gaydar Malfunction by Elisa Wolfe Ghosts of the Crossroads by Michael Spohr Gideon’s Stand by Mike Palmisciano Good Intentions by Alexis Croyle & Rudy Croyle Great Divide by Brice Parker G-Team by Leonard E. Lawson Guard #3 by Doug Molitor Hawaii Calls by Rick Helin Heaven’s Ladder by Mark Savage Heistwise by Clete Barrett Smith Hell Breaks Loose by M. Robert Turnage His Fair Lady by Russell Bryan Sommers Holiday Spectacular by Georgia Flight Hypergraphia by Tim Macy In Bend by Colleen Sheils In Love In War by John Stancari Into Loud Silence by Aram S. Katz Jim Hawkins and the New World Conquest by Jospeh D. Blackerby & C. Grant Smith Jugger by William M. Kelly, Jr. Julian’s Trench by James Roman & Chris Donaldson Kamikaze Dolls by Nir Paniry Kylee’s Amazing Quest by Kevin Campbell Lobo by Limary Vargas Lost Cause by Bobby Duncan Low Cunning by Odin Shafer Lyrical by Carter Stewart Mad by Nicholas Carr Mistress of the Sea by Rebecca Howland Mittfits by Richard H. Kenney, Jr. Money Game by Maureen Holohan Monkey Grass by Stone Lyons & Daniel J. Gardner Mothers by Mark Scheibert My Linh by David Kane Navy Family by Douglas J. Cook Needle in a Haystack by Irin Evers Never Blink Twice by Yvette Bou New Model Patriots by Brian Tuohy Nick Hardy & the Magic of Christmas by Alastair J .A. Thorne Night Angel by Joseph Middleton Night of Reflections by Craig Cambria Nimbus by Joe Borriello Nine Lives And The Great Mike Todd by Will Moore One Morning at Salamis by Mark R. Whittington Opus in a Minor Key by Stanley F. Werke Otherwise Engaged by Jolene Jahnke Pact by Alex Hollister Papa Was a Stolling Rone by Jennifer Harrison Penny Dreadful by Elinor Perry-Smith Phineas Gage by Dillon Euler Pistoleras by Elisabeth Fies Powder Blue by Steve Lanza Pride Fighter by Drew Miyaki Providence by James Denton Psycho Therapy by Frank A. Tiberi Rasputin by Laqueta Lewis Return From Tranquility by Allen P. Bishop Rickenbacker by Kevin Leonard Robbie Rebound by Travis Maruska Root Of All Evil by Elaine M. Vaughn Rose’s Choice by Mary Anna Zagorda-Rust Rough Trade by Howard Casner Second Skin by Kim Alan Pederson Seeking Sarah by John Lyes Set Up by Andrew Wong Sex and Sylvia Plath by Jennifer O'Kieffe Sherlock & Jack by Jeff Wolverton Shingletown by Robert Rhyne Show Dog by David Harris Kline Shrovetide by Peter Besson Silent Killer by Phil Ferriere Splat! by Alix Reeves Split Image by Charles Winecoff Split Rock Light by Andy Froemke Star by Ehud Lavski Stupid Bet by Erik Argenti Sun King by Steve Staniec Superior by Michael Burton Supervillain by Sam Strachman Ten Thousand Bullets Later by Scott La Cagnin Terraformed by James K. Shea Testament by Joseph Nienalt & Roman Gutierrez The Banner by Tina Juarez The Bermuda Nine by Ben McDaniel The Best Clown Money Can Buy by Bronwyne Mirkovich The Book of Wrong by Mark Caughey The Botanist by Chris Taylor The Boy From Settignano - Michelangelo by Maureen Johnson The Burning Man by Brian Craft The Burning Sky by Trai Cartwright The Cannery by Sharon Wlayserwski The Cenote by Hunter M. Davis The Chinaman by Cliff Pulliam The Christmas Collection by Henderson Smith & Brett Smith The Circle by Brian Roll & Peter Mahoney The City of Silence by PedroBonano The Crimson Mafia by Suzye Gardner-Marnino The Darkest Shade of Gray by Michael Coleman The Dirty Half Dozen by Amy Waddell The Divine Number Nine by Patrick McNair & Eric Thompson The Enemy In The Castle by Letty A. Hummel The Good Fortune of Mr. Frost by Vivienne Schiffer The Gray Ghost by David Gillis The Harrowing by David Cowper The Hogswood Incident by Simon J. Williamson The Hydrogen Thing by Kal Wagenheim The Jeweler’s Wife by David Shailer The Knighthood by Gary Woo The Last Caribou by Andrew Kamp The Last Little Thing by Robert Hull The Last Story of David Allan by Matthew Sprosty The Magruder Affair by Steven Carey Lassoff The Mamasan by Kate Perkins The Man With No Face by R. K. Mann The Meek by Brad Vassar The Misadventures of Electrolyte and The Justice Purveyors by Patrick James Reilly The Nine Second Club by James Rabbitts The Ninja and The Witch by Christopher H. Tovar The Opposite of Sex by Dana Schoenfeld The People In Your Neighborhood by Nate Loomis The People’s Choice by Karen Callahan The Perfect Season by Ben K. Fink & Jay L. Lohse The Plane Crash Portion of Your Amazon Adventure by Anita Jean Justice The Raven’s Treasure by Connie Tonsgard The Reliquary by Jim Lion The Rise of Fred Amazing by Scott Cunningham The Shadow Code by Layne Sheppard Salter The Spear Of Destiny by Jeff Wolverton The Suicide Table by Rafael Moscatel The Sword of Gary by Tim Stitzel The Tain by Ken White The Tale of Winter’s Tail by Diane Hodill The Titans by Matthew Solik The Violiln Player by Ian Bernard Solomon The War of the Grandmas by Mary Huckstep The Warrior Class by Hassan Mostofi Thompson’s Secret War by Gina DeAngelis Through the Night by Edward Martin III Time’s Up by Steven A. Lee To The Ice by Ruth Ellen Johnson Truthies by Carlo DeCarlo Ultreia by Mercedes Meier Unity by Eugene L. Langlais III & Paul R. Langlais Unnatural Girl by Callie Lane Victor Mark by Allen Holm Wages of Sin by Loren Lambert War is Like Totally Hell by Michael Cohen-Elyanow Way of the Sword by Chuck Duffie When The Waters Change Direction by Dennis O’Flyng White Water by Harold Brown Who Wants to Marry Joel? by Bethanie Morrissey Without Warning by J. Brockton Holbert Worm by Marc A.Sampson Wrath by J. C. Hinton Written Off by Paul Weiss & Jay Kristopher Huddy Young Arthur’s Quest by Barry P. Ambrose & Christopher Stapleton Zaitorax Defenders: Terukan Invaders by Carlton T. Saito

For the The Top 20%, click here.

QUESTIONS? • Click here to read the competition FAQ • Still have questions? Email us at ExpoCompetition@aol.com

Or try this link...the list is line by line and not this eyesore.

http://www.screenwritingexpo.com/2007quarter.html

Thanks, Orlanda! :)

Thank you--everyone--for your contributions (and please continue to contribute!)

I must say I find this thread in particular extremely important, interesting and eye-opening.

So I'll say it again -- THANK YOU

And thank you again :)

And it goes without saying congrats again, Linda! :)

"...never giving up."

Thanks, Linda, for taking the time to answer our questions.

I'm not giving up either! :)

Congrats to all the semis!

I'm still awaiting feedback - did anybody else already receive theirs? Jason's web note states that all scripts have been read and feedback will be going out within the next two weeks.

Also big congrats to the semis who made the cut over at Extreme Screenwriting's comp - saw many familiar names and script titles there as well.

Good luck to all on the next round with both comps! :)

Congrats, Danny!

Very happy for you :)

Congrats, Connie.

Good luck on the next round! :)

Amen, Terry!

Joining the chorus too (as Peter said) but please don't ask me to sing, ha ha!

Wishing everyone the best and may 2008 be OUR year (options, sales, movies being made and lots of tickets sold, etc!) :)

Merry Xmas and Happy New Year!

Wow, you two guys!

Taking #1 and #2 spots with the Moviescript contest! Great going!

Very happy for you! :)

May — October 2007 Contest Winners

Full-length

First Place is Phil Ferriere — Silent Killer Second Place is Kevin Kalmes — Vengeance Third Place is Paul McComas — Unplugged Honorable Mention goes to Colin Costello — Bridezilla vs. Deer Honorable Mention goes to Frank Brady — Sweeps

Teleplay/Short

First Place is Kimberly Coleman — Kiyala Second Place is Leo Vasilevskiy — My Epiphany Closet Third Place is Greg Gibson — Gus and Chloe Honorable Mention goes to Anthony Amenta — Dial H For Happines Honorable Mention goes to John Uth — Down the Short

Connie, their website is up and Estella's pic and script are listed along with finalists. It sez she won for 2007, but last year (before they posted their new website) they listed her as the previous year's winner. Maybe they are still in the process of updating their new web and will announce 2007 winners...?

Hi D -

Have you tried www.simplyscripts.com ? They have lots of free online scripts.

As does Drew's Script-o-rama www.script-o-rama.com

Bill Martell's site has some online scripts listed in the menu. www.scriptsecrets.net

If you can't find what you want on these sites, to purchase a hard copy or a pdf. try Script City (in Hollywood) I've ordered many times from them (hard copies mailed to me - takes 3-5 business day after I Paypal the payment) I've never had a problem and love them (in fact I'm awaiting a script from them now) They have tons of screenplays including some hard to find ones (movie and TV) www.scriptcity.com

I'm sure there are more sites, but these are the ones I know about and use frequently.

Hi Gene -

I've been listing my scripts in three different categories for a couple years now. While it's great to make the top 10 (in two of the categories) it's only generated a few read requests from low-enders that resulted in the ultimate "pass."

Granted, one of the scripts is a tough sell (thriller noir)

Since it's free I'll continue to list (there's another addition where you pay for extras)...but I'm not holding my breath.

On the other hand, "who's buying what?" has proved useful and I've referred to it many times.

John, I'm adding my hearty congrats to you as well - one of the nicest and most sincere writers who frequents this board. You always have encouraging words and tidbits of wisdom to share - now it's all coming back to you tenfold (plus you are absolutely a damn good writer to consistantly place/win with your "whale" of a script!)

Keep us posted of your future endeavors! Jean :)

Adding my congrats! :)

Terry -

This thread is congratulating the finalists for the Blue Cat "Lab" which is a separate comp.

The March deadline is for their regular screenwriting comp. :)

www.xtremescreenwriting.com

You can't go wrong with Barb Doyon - she really delivers and at a fraction of the cost. No one sees my work until Barb has blessed it. She's tops. :)

Check out her website (link above) and read about her and her many well-deserved testimonials.

Look what Joanne Woodward did with "Three Faces of Eve" - not to mention she ended up winning awards. Same for Susan Hayward in many of her roles ("I Want to Live" and "I'll Cry Tomorrow" come to mind) She specialized in these types of roles. I'm reaching back into the past but these performances still shine even today. :)

You sound like you have a terrific sense of humor too, Ron! :)

Correct me if I'm mistaken, but I believe Martell's book is out of print and extremely hard to find. I've seen one used copy up on Ebay in the last year or so and it went for boucoup (spelling?) Would love to read it though if anybody knows where to find a copy a writer can afford! :)

HA HA HA HA HA!!! :)

They sure don't make movies like they used to. Less is more in all aspects. :)

Connie, this thread's all for you! I've read of your terrible accident and your struggles. My heart and best wishes goes out to you.

How many times have I seen your script "A Death in Concord" making comp cuts?! Amazing. Hold onto that...and continue to chip away at the barriers. You ARE making progress!

That read-back feature on Final Draft is great - I've used it myself.

Hang in there, Connie. I'm rooting for you! :)

HA HA HA HA HA again!

Paula, I read your short "The Donor" on your web and it is MAJOR creepy! Will you be entering it in festivals? I'm taking the plunge and writing my first short and find the process even more challenging than writing features. Any pointers you can share on writing a short? Thx! :)

Great advice, Randy! I'm aiming at 15 minutes and minimal locations. However I do want a couple of brief but important scenes insides vehicles (a Greyhound bus and car) and the rest exterior. Would the vehicle scenes prove a hindrance? Thx for your advice! :)

Randy, great Linda Cowsill article! Really helped a lot as have your pointers. I'm jazzed - working on the script as we write! Thanks for the support :)

Thanks for the heads-up, Paula. No, the Greyhound name in itself is not imperative to the story. Just the first bus line to pop into my head. I used to travel Greyhound more so in the days when $50 got you a one-way ticket anywhere in the USA. Ouch! I think that one dates me, ha ha! :)

Another vote for Final Draft :)

Great post, Gene. Thanks for taking the time to put it together.

I agree all the way across the board. So many comps don't really respect writers. I think many are into it to line their own pockets. I used to enter quite a few comps rather indiscriminately but time and experience (not to mention digging deep into the piggy bank) have cautioned me to really scrutinize the fine print. Just what can these comps do for me?

I'm into this to network period. I want my scripts getting into the hands that can make things happen. Prize money is great but it's here today and gone tomorrow, I already have screenwriting software and subscribe to screenwriting mags and wins/placements do look impressive on the resume...but bottom line is getting to the decision makers.

Isn't that what we're all striving for? :)

Ditto Eric...

I've been to several of the Fade In Pitchfests, both their 1 day seminars/1 day pitching and also their 2 solid days of pitching. I much prefer the latter. I've had several read requests and open invitations to submit future work to certain prodcos.

A good investment - but make sure you have your pitch down pat. You only get about 7 minutes per pitch.

Hi Jerry -

Barb's website www.xtremescreenwriting.com will answer your questions.

She's topnotch. :)

How exciting! You must be on cloud nine.

Congrats! :)

Way to go, Connie!

Screenplay Festival comp announced their finalists from a very long semi list and "A Death in Concord" made the thriller/horror finals!!

Big congrats, Connie! I'm so happy for you!! :)

Hi Michael -

I attended two years ago (awards ceremony only) and I had a great time! The entertainment provided was topnotch as well as the gourmet supper provided and networking opportunities. Didn't hurt either that my thriller noir took home the Platinum Remi in its category either!

I'm going this year as well (my family drama is a Remi winner)

Maybe others can fill Michael in on the actual festival itself as I didn't see any of the screened films.

Congrats, Michael! :)

I was going to say one of my favs "Reservoir Dogs" but I believe the budget was just over a mil.

I read where some of the actors provided their own wardrobes and also the Caddy Madsen stuffs the kidnapped cop into was his own personal vehicle.

I'm keeping my fingers crossed for you, Nathan! Worldfest's web sez it's sending out emails and letters through the end of this month and will be posting Remi nominees by tomorrow. :)

Adding my heartfelt congrats, Connie!!

Not only an ace screenwriter, but you write winning poems as well!

BRAVO!! :)

Hey, Nathan! Congrats on Charleston and your Worldfest Silver Remi! I won't be going to Charleston, but I am attending the Worldfest awards ceremony. My family drama is a Remi winner also. :)

Listen to Eric's advice (and his confidence as a scriptwriter!) I've read his work and he's correct on both counts!! :)

Ouch, Kyle...You might want to check out Connie's previous posts before labeling her a novice screenwriter let alone sour grapes.

Kyle, I don't know you, but I'm reading between the lines (subtext?) and assuming it isn't in you to just offer a SINCERE apology and leave it at that without all the rest (especially the "retarded" comment)

Geez yourself (as I fade out in disgust!!)

Hi Connie - I visited your web for your company and also the Amazon site for the book you and your husband wrote and illustrated yourself. Wow! You're not only accomplished in writing screenplays and poems but you can certainly draw as well. I loved the cover illustration (I'm partial to dogs) Nice also being able to put a face to your name as well!

Keep up the great work! :)

Best wishes in the fellowship, Connie. Your "Death in Concord" has certainly been ablaze in comps lately.

I've been entering Nicholl every year since the '90s - made quarters once and top 15% and top 10% a few times. I hate to break the cycle so I'll enter again this year (my family drama)

Here's to us! :)

Hi Brick -

I also only register my scripts with the WGAw and copyright them, but a service called Writesafe offers protection as well. There is information about them and the contest they run listed under Moviebyte's contest area.

It seems to be inevitable if they extend the entry deadline they in turn end up extending the notification date.

At least that's been my experience with some of the comps I've entered both past and present. I've cut down drastically on the comps I'm throwing my money to for various reasons and this is one of them. :(

When a writer is given a deadline to submit a script and/or rewrites to a prodco, they'd better have those pages turned in on time or they could be SOL.

When somebody runs a comp, they hold the reins and can do whatever they want (including extensions.) I personally do not agree with this and one would think after too many times (years) of pulling this they would lose enough submissions to force them into rethinking their motives behind why they are really in this? If it's to make money but also to push forward a writers' career, then they need to think ahead regardless of how many entries they think they'll receive and be prepared with enough readers to handle the submissions. Sounds simple but apparently it's not. Even well-known comps like BlueCat are guilty of this time and time again. Be prepared...writers have to be.

Mike, that sounds about right. Every time I have copyrighted my work it seems to take around 6 months or so before I receive my certificate in the mail. However I think the copyright actually begins when they receive and stamp in the application and not when the certificate is mailed to you. I could be mistaken.

Hi Mike -

Big congrats to you as well! I hope this win opens big doors for you (and Nathan and me too!) Guess it just wasn't in the cards for us to meet that evening - but there's always other film festivals and hopefully big awards awaiting us all. :)

P.S. The Worldfest award winners are up on their website! :)

www.worldfest.org

Geoff, that's great! And I LOVE that time period, the fab '40s :)

Add my shout! :)

Greg's explanation makes sense and I respect his respect for writers - any way you put it, it simply ISN't fair to writers who have "played by the rules" and entered their work by the deadline only to find out that because it was tax time the deadline was extended (didn't the coordinator look at the calendar when the deadline was selected? Tax time is envitable and the same date every year!!) The only way around this - in my opinion - is to allow those who already entered to re-enter a polish (if this is the writer's case) gratis or at the very least at a significant reduction.

To those comps that already offer this, please accept my thanks (and respect)

Without a doubt much time and detail has gone into preparing their very attractive and easy-on-the-ojos website. It's certainly one of the most cohesive I've read.

Paypal or a Money Order only for entry fees (no biggie except for those who don't have Paypal and then have to cough up the Money Order fees) No checks in other words.

No genre categories (like PAGE offers) I personally prefer comps that offer categories. I understand reads are subjective but I sure as heck hope I get one that understands noir does not play out like comedy (I'm not kidding)

Feedback is offered for additional monies. :(

Quarters are announced a couple of weeks after their final deadline.

I'm keeping an eye on their (expanding) companies who have agreed to take a serious look at the top 3 finalists.

Overall does look promising as Ben so enthusiastically noted. :)

Connie, that's fantastic that you made the quarters cut in the Story Pros Awards comp with 3 scripts - 2 in Drama and 1 in Action.

You're on a blazing hot streak, girl! Go get 'em in the semis! :)

Hey Connie! Yes, I went down to Houston for the Worldfest awards ceremony. Brought home a Gold Remi for my family script. It's a great festival and very nice people.

Nathan, were you able to get your Remi okay? :)

Congrats, Nathan, on Worldfest and your upcoming comp. Best wishes to you and the Langlais brothers. Keep us posted. :)

Eric and I are beginning to sound like broken records...

Barb Doyon is THE best!! :)

Some comps throw thriller and/or mystery in this category as well...makes no sense to me either. Maybe they don't know where to put these genres, although - in my case - I'm glad the thrillers (sometimes) aren't thrown in with drama. I know a great script will rise to the top regardless, but it's really difficult as drama is such an overloaded and competitive category to even make a cut in. :(

I hear you, Bob.

Good luck with whichever route you take...they are all challenging ones!

Thanks, Heather, for taking the time to respond.

Yes, whenever I've been asked to submit my work electronically, it's always via PDF. I believe comments/notes can be inserted along the margin, but the wordage itself cannot be altered.

Interestingly enough though, on the otherhand, when attending several Pitchfests during the last few years, every single read request was for a hard copy. Both on the spot and/or submitting via mail. Some writers were carrying CD discs to hand out, but I don't know if many were requested due to viruses, etc.

I'm nostalgic so personally I prefer the old fashioned hard copy script in my hand! :)

Sorry, Heather!

3 broken records cheering for Barb Doyon - hear us roar! :)

Geoff, congrats on your "Story Pros" quarters! I'm in also with two of mine - let's hear it for Moviebyters! :)

Connie, I believe Frederick (and Moviebytes) are based out of Illinois. Great site and I appreciate it very much! :)

Thanks, Paula. Makes sense to me after second thought. :)

Thanks, everyone - I have a feeling that this is the Year of the Almighty Moviebyters!! :)

Hi Don - Thanks for the congrats! Maybe you know something I don't (yet) know in regards to "Serena's Thunder" ?!

Could it be Barb's Xtreme newsletter where you read my script "Slade" was just optioned?

But hey, I'll take an option for "Serena's Thunder" too! Send check to...

In all sincerity, I appreciate your congrats! :)

Geoff & John - thanks much for the kind words. :)

Thanks much, Nathan! :)

Thanks, Walter! :)

An ex-con breaks parole to track down his son but ends up being stalked by his victim's brother.

Throw in the femme fatale and you got it!! :)

Hi Robert - I've been to several and enjoyed them very much. I've been to both - the 1 day seminars/1 day pitching and the 2 solid days of pitching. Both offered by FadeIn but at different times of the year. I've had several read requests, some wanting scripts on the spot (which I had) or I was given their card to send the work via pdf. Be sure to have your pitch down pat as you are only given 7 minutes - 5 minutes to pitch and 2 minutes for wrap-up. FadeIn is very organized and you'll get a lot out of this if you go prepared. Good luck! :)

Hahahahahaha...!

Peter, you are too much! Thanks for the nice words, friend. :)

Thank you, Connie! :)

Thanks, Michael! :)

Hi Geoff - I have never heard of GRIFF (am I on another planet?!) Good luck to you!

You have some valid concerns/suggestions addition to Gene's list about comps. I think there are just too many nowadays. I am being very selective on the ones I'm entering...my long list is down to just a trusted few.

Worldfest has been a "must enter" for me for many reasons. One is their absolute professionalism and dedication to indie!

Their entry fee is higher than most, but I will support them (and my resume) by entering if I have a script ready. I've entered twice so far, "medaled" twice and I love this comp!

Yes, their entry form is very long with many categories and looks complicated but it's really not. Once you scroll down to the screenwriting section (#700 I believe) it's very easy and they offer several sub-categories for scripts. They also accept short scripts.

The awards ceremony is beautifully presented in a first class hotel ballroom with live entertainment, a delicious 4 or 5 course meal and Hunter's stories (worth entering alone!) He's a wreath of knowledge and a real character.

Give it a try next year, Gene. I think you will be pleasantly surprised - they are great about answering emails and keeping on track with announcements. :)

Hey Gene, yeah, I've gotta check it out! Congrats to you and your brother for advancing to the semis in ASA.

Go Moviebyters! :)

I agree with Nathan. Stories sound very interesting to me...just need to spruce up the loglines. Sorry I can't help in that department. Loglines have never been my strongest writing. :(

Good luck at the film festival! Are you entered or just attending?

Based upon my experiences when pitching at Pitchfest, it's best to keep direct eye contact with whoever you are pitching to and pitch verbally. I've occasionally peeked very discretely down at notes, but tried not to have it look like I'm reading off anything. Just be natural but animated. This displays your passion for your work. I'll never forget how many compliments I always received (whether my work was requested or not) about how passionate I am about my work. Great compliment and a definite shot in the arm! Keep us posted. We're rooting for you! :)

P.S. I've seen and used loglines that start with "so and so" meets "so and so" (insert movie titles) Like "Romeo and Juliet" meets "Star Wars" when...etc. Gives the logline a flavor of what the script is about in a sentence. :)

Connie has stated many times that she does explain (when entering comps and/or following up with questions) her situation. It's up to the comp's "powers to be" to accept this or not. While I don't condone that anyone should receive "special consideration" in the judging arena, in Connie's case I do believe understanding to her situation should be extended. All she wants to know is if her work was really read or not. Hell, there's times I wonder myself to be honest with you. The difference is I haven't pursued it.

No, Gene, you are not alone. :)

Thanks for sharing, Randy.

Hope you'll drop by more often :)

Good point, Orlanda.

Connie, right now you are in the finals with the Screenplay Festival (3 scripts I believe) and quarters with Story Pros with I think 2 scripts. There might be others we're not aware of. Plus you've done very well in many other comps in the past. It goes without saying you ARE a screenwriter and an accomplished one at that. Don't ever let the questionable comps drag you down. It's their loss...not yours. :)

Keep it simple...keep it clean.

I mean this in the most helpful vein, but I'm bogged down by the many "big words" that aren't easy on the eyes and that require a dictionary. Maybe it's just me. I'll admit this is not my genre so maybe I'm just out of my element.

Just seems too many words/sentences in the loglines.

Just my thoughts...:)

Hope you all have a wonderful day and/or remember yours fondly as I do mine.

She bought me my first book (even before I knew how to read) my first pencil, my first writing tablet, my first (manual) typewriter, my first words of encouragement, my first congratulations and endless lasting memories.

Here's to you, Ma - hope I'm making you proud.

Don, it's the thought that counts :)

But I sure do hope you're also psychic!!

Congrats on your honorable mention for your comedy script in the Screenplay Festival comp! To make this cut is impressive as there were a ton of entries.

Is this the same script that has been doing well in other comps?

Congrats again, Nathan! :)

Gene & Geoff - Thanks for the congrats (right back at ya, Geoff!)

Yes, I did check out Geoff's site - the detail is awesome. Everything swept me right back to my favorite era (in spirit though - I wasn't around yet)

And Connie, big congrats to you as well. That's fantastic that both of your scripts advanced!

Here's hoping we all see our names as finalists in a couple of weeks. :)

Hi Martin - Yes, a couple of times. In fact, just received a request yesterday. :)

If I can jump on the bandwagon here - I have nothing but the highest praise for the PAGE comp. In the few short years they've been around, they have rapidly become one of the most professionally-run and writer-friendly comps around. The ladies - Jennifer and Zoe (if not writers themselves) - certainly are surrounded by either family or friends who write as they truly care and want only the best for all entrants. They are very accessible and have always answered my emails almost before I've hit the "send" button.

PAGE is one comp I always make sure I have a script or two ready to enter. And I love the fact they offer genre categories too. In my book, no writer can go wrong entering this one. :)

Ditto Terry...It's an absolute MUST to do your research when contacted by anyone requesting your work. I have several sources I use for cross-reference and many times have been glad I have taken the extra time to do so.

Congrats, John! Is this a new script or one you dusted off?

Congrats extended to everyone! :)

Hi Connie -

Unfortunately, without the comp offering feedback (whether it's part of the entry fee or additional) it's a total crapshoot when we send in our work whether it's actually read or even how many pages are read. Some comps state in their rules/regulations they will only read up to page so-and-so (usually page 30) before deciding if the script warrants reading to "Fade Out." Others swear up and down they read the entire script and sometimes even give entries two reads by different readers before deciding if the script is moving up the ladder.

But who really knows?

All I'm certain of is you're not alone, Connie. Many of us here on the boards are experiencing these same frustrations. Why does the same script fare well in one comp and not make any cut whatsoever in another? Is it more to our advantage to enter early or right on the deadline?

My only answer is (when you come right down it it) the ball is really in our court as to whether to enter a particular comp or skip it. That's the only control we have.

Hi Toby - I've always had at least 3 coverages done on my work before it goes anywhere and Barb's #1 on my list.

This month she is running a terrific special - order her expedited review (I believe a 3 day turn-around) and you get a free 30 minute phone consultation (US writers only)

I've used both of these services and she's timely, detailed and definitely worth every penny (not to mention she's one of the least expensive out there, but don't let that fool you. She's the absolute best without gouging your pocketbook)

Give her service a try with confidence :)

Thanks, Toby.

Keep us posted :)

Connie, Elaine & Geoff -

Fireworks to you all for advancing to the finals! That's so terrific and I'm very happy for each of you! :)

Hi - I use three different readers to see where my scripts fall in their opinions of story, structure, character, dialogue, etc. These readers do not specialize in genre. Sometimes all agree on what works/doesn't work. Sometimes 2 out of 3 feel one or more areas needs work and offer concrete suggestions. I then take that up with the 3rd reader for their opinion. I've found that using this approach (3 different readers for the same draft at the same time) gives me a well-rounded view and solid feedback to incorporate into my rewrites. I don't enter the script into comps and/or market the script until I've received three unanimous thumbs up.

Hi Poetist - I don't know about other screenwriting software, but Final Draft will automatically convert your script to pdf. and then you can easily attach it to an email and send it out. Final Draft offers many other unique features; one I especially like is you can listen to your script read back to you. Good luck! :)

Welcome back, Ben!

Although I'm not sure about the "back" part - you are and have been always welcome here as far as I'm concerned. :)

I've also had requests for both at the same time. Good luck! :)

Thanks for the heads-up, Gene. This greedy hands-out nonsense is exactly why I steered clear of these comps. You really have to take the time and read every single word or you could end up shelling out a lot more than just an entry fee. Thanks again.

Connie, when I "Googled" them they came up under the Denver Film Society. They are holding their film festival in November. Not sure if there is a screenplay comp affiliated with this one or not.

Gene, I'm with you.

This thread in particular has disintegrated into ugliness and I'm shaking my head why it had to go there in the first place.

Everybody has free choice whether to read/respond to a post or not. Nobody's being forced to do either. It's our individual choice. Don't like a particular poster? Feel they are a waste of time? Ignore 'em! Why give them your energy? Use that for creating screenplays.

We're banded together here as screenwriters. There's a myriad of experience behind each post. We can learn and share as long as things are kept respectful and civil as Gene said. It's not a perfect world and nobody is always going to agree, but can't we have mature disagreements?

I've heard that in the past things got very ugly here and a lot of those posters don't or rarely post here anymore for whatever reason. Wasn't anything learned from that?

In closing, Robert, sincere congrats on making finals in Story Pros. I have no other excuse behind why I didn't congratulate you in the first place but this--the plain truth is I also had not yet recognized your name or script title. I'm equally happy for you and all the other finalists whether I know you or not. :)

Orlanda & Ron, I can never get youtubes videos to load on my computer (?)

Are you saying that copyrighted and/or WGA registered works will no longer be protected and can be stolen/plagarized, etc. by anybody other than the author?

Thanks for the clarification :)

Michele & Geoff - it takes mighty big constitutions to bare your soul on a public forum. I appreciate your clarifying posts and thank you. :)

Congrats to all and good luck in the next round! :)

Hey, Terry, you made the 100th post. Is that some kinda record for a thread? :)

I have FD 7.1.2 and noticed a few months ago if I worked on my script for several hours (or had the computer on and came back and forth to FD) that the screen would suddenly freeze when I hit the "save" button, an error message popped up and I lost everything that had not been previously saved by me or automatically saved (I think mine is defaulted to save every 10 mins or so)

Since my version is registered with FD, I went on their website and via instant messaging their tech. support advised it was time for me to upgrade to their new version which is free from their site. I did and haven't had a problem since.

I love the fact you can instantly convert your script to pdf. without having to install additional software.

Michele's kudos for your script(s) made me check 'em out for myself.

Now since she already claimed Mrs. Guth's plum-colored lips and sad curlers (you left out her garish nylon leggings from the '80s struggling to restrain her fleshy legs) I have a few favs of my own (some courtesy of Mrs. Guth)

"...You're going to end up on the streets, rolling around like a marble..."

"...I've cut you so much slack I've whittled you a new asshole..."

"...fugly place..."

But I think my prize goes to "...We'll get you away from your pain medicines, stool softeners and bed-sore lotions."

Robert, I just had to thank you for these laugh-outlouds.

Good luck in the comps with these two. Keep us posted. :)

Hi Janet - I'm assuming the script is completed, am I correct?

Have you already or are you considering getting feedback coverage done on it? This will give you a sense where you're at in many aspects (story, characters, dialogue, marketability, etc.)

And/or have you entered your script in comps and how did you fare? This might also give you an indication where your script stands, but not always in the marketability aspect. Some comps don't judge for that, but some do.

Good luck! :)

P.S. I think your story sounds intriguing and so does living on a farm/ranch.

I think most "small" character-driven stories fare better when indie-produced and distributed. And remember that when they can get made, they are often the ones that may not bring in a boatload of $$, but they often enough bring home their fair share of awards. Sadly, though, Hollywood isn't interested in these types of pictures.

Robert Duvall's "The Apostle" comes to mind. He wrote the script in the '80s but it took YEARS before he was able to finally get it made (and with $4M of his own $$ which was later reimbursed to him by the distributors when the film unexpectedly did well at the box office) He hit up actor "friends" to invest and they all turned him down. Duvall ended up with a ton of indie and film critics awards and nominations as well as an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.

He not only cleaned up but he showed 'em all, didn't he?

Janet, I'm not in the business either, but you've got it right when you said just to keep on writing. Some scripts come together and some never do. Like Nathan mentioned, he has a script close to his heart that's been a challenge. I have one like that too - part autobio/part fiction. I'm just too close to everything in it and have had to put it aside for the time being until I can look at it like a coverage reader does (with detachment)

And yes, now I do recognize your name and your script "Pony Girl" ! I was intrigued when I originally saw your script listed on Story Pros because the title sounds interesting to me and much like my own family script (a girl and her horse) I'm sorry also we didn't advance in that category. But there are always others to enter and cross our fingers. That's about all we can do once it's out of our hands.

Connie, so very proud and happy for you! :)

"The Bodyguard" comes to mind...but it was made 16 years ago. It won awards and made over $400M. It could also depend on who stars in your film, Janet. Kevin Costner and Whitney Houston at the time could draw 'em in.

Connie, unfortunately I'm not able to access the video portion of the website, but I read the viewers' comments on that web and I am very touched.

Gene said everything I want to say to you also, Connie.

Bless you - Jean :)

Janet, I had a coverage reader literally tell me once to "toss this script into the trash, it will never go anywhere!!"

If I had heeded that lone reader's remarks (which of course I never would regardless how many readers might have handed me this piece of advice) then this particular script would have never gone on to receive a "recommend" from three other readers (Barb Doyon is one) nor win and place very highly in numerous comps (an earlier draft under a different title was a Nicholls quarterfinalist some years back)

By the way, Janet, the lead female is white and the lead male is black and is set in the 1940s jazz scene. You sound as though you are as passionate about your story as I am about mine - SO DON'T GIVE UP!!

Janet, Barb's website is:

www.xtremescreenwriting.com

She runs monthly specials - look at the top of her website for what's cookin' this month!

Preditors & Editors website

http://anotherealm.com/prededitors/

If a specific year (ie: 21) makes no difference, I've used early, mid and late (ie: early 20s)

They are scheduled to announce winners today -- to all the finalists, congrats again! I'm keeping my fingers crossed so tightly for all of you I can barely type! Good luck!

Major congrats to GEOFF BREUDER for securing 2nd place in the Story Pros Action/Adventure/Thriller category with his strong script "THE ACE OF ACES" (insert fireworks)

Wow, Geoff - this is fantastic!! I'm so very happy for you!

My sincere congrats also to all the finalists! :)

Toby, that's wonderful! A "consider" is nothing to sneeze at. A consultant has their "rep" to keep in mind and most don't just hand out "recommends" here and there (or "considers" for that matter) unless the script truly warrants it.

Whether you agree or disagree with the suggestions for strenghtening your script, I'd get another opinion or two before altering your work. If you can, get three reads at the same time, that way you can compare notes, see where readers agree/disagree and go from there.

A "recommend" could be just another rewrite away!

That's great news on your "recommend," Patrick. You certainly made a wise decision choosing Barb. She's the best.

Have you entered your work in comps? Good luck! :)

Heather, congrats to you also!

Moviebyters are racking up so much good news it's hard keeping up with everybody. :)

That's great to hear, Dorothy & Jage.

Good to see you back, Jage. Did you enter PAGE again this year?

I received an acknowledgement email a few weeks ago and at that time they said they had received just over 5000 entries (between 5000-5100 I believe).

Hey Janet - Congrats on the Honorable Mention for "Pony Girl." That's great! :)

Well, Janet, extra congrats to you for this only being your 2nd comp and to make the cut! That is amazing!!

May your road to bigtime succe$$ be a short one...and thank you for mentioning me to Barb. :)

I've heard of this software but am not familiar with it. Is it like Microsoft Word?

Is the formatting the same as FD and MM? Most comps that allow online submissions state in their rules they will only accept FD, MM, Word and/or pdf. (they prefer pdf.) When prodcos, etc. request an electronic submission they mean a pdf. Will your software convert your script to pdf?

If yes to all the above, then there shouldn't be a problem, but then like I said, I'm not familiar with this software. I do know the industry widely recognizes FD and/or MM.

I don't go crazy but I still cringe when I see "recieve" for "receive." :(

I don't mean to step on toes for those who entered this year's Fade In comp (especially if you're advancing - congrats!) but take a gander at their report card.

I crossed this one off my list a few years ago mainly due to a) their inability to honor announcement dates (not just weeks but months!) b) the opposite of what Acton is concerned about (their cut lists are miles long - does every entry make quarters? Makes me think they are just trying to please everybody right at the start so we'll forgive them for the huge gaps between announcing quarters thru winners) c) the continuing saga of reading about others' bad experiences (and no it's not strictly "sour grapes" as I did make cuts)

What good is it if you win/place besides adding a gold star to your resume if they don't deliver the goods? How can you have faith they will provide networking opportunities if they can't even get you their promised Waterman fountain pen? They've been around long enough to start running this comp on a professional level.

On the flip side, they do run a good Pitchfest as I've attended several.

Reminds me of what a New York friend told me once - if you absolutely can't stand somebody and want to flip them off verbally just end the conversation with "have a nice day!" Be sure they are not from New York, however.

Hi Terri - It's not necessary to put the WGA# on your script unless a prodco specifically asks you to do so. Sometimes they request this info on a release, in which case put it there. Good luck! :)

I DID go away depressed after reading this article, but the optimistic side of me said keep at it, you DO have quality stories to offer but not to Hollywood.

The "old" Hollywood doesn't exist anymore. Robert Towne, the writer of one of my favorite films "Chinatown," has often said this script could never be made today for a variety of reasons, one being lack of interest in this kind of story. Yet it is one of the most revered films of all times (and script-wise as well)

I'm with Randy...indie is the way to go.

Flo, that's fantastic! And welcome aboard, by the way. :)

http://ogunstate.gov.ng/ministry/information/min_information.htm

Hope this helps...there is info on Ayo Oluyemi on this site (if this is who you are looking for)

Ayo Oluyemi Films (Nigeria) is listed on IMDb but without any contact info other than a couple of videos.

Good luck.

Another congrats to you, John.

Is there a chance you will share the logline of what your new script is about?

Thanks, Mike, for sharing your experiences at Cinestory.

John, uncurl yourself and get outa the bathtub -- you've got more scripts to write and share with us!

Thanks and congrats to both of you guys!! :)

P.S. I've heard nothing but the highest praise about the Croasmun series from other writers, John. Sounds like a wise decision to look into their courses.

Congrats, Acton, for making the semis with "Widow's Island" :)

Congrats to you both! Keep us posted :)

Hey, everyone, that's fantastic! And Flo, congrats to you as well.

Orlanda, two scripts - wow! Double congrats to you, girl!

Best wishes to everyone moving up to the next notch :)

Yikes, Michael - missed your name (again?) Sorry - so many Moviebyters are making cuts I think for now on I'll just say "congrats everyone!" :)

Congrats, Lou.

I like "Resurrecting..." has a nice ring to it. :)

Patrick, congrats on your "recommend" with Barb as mentioned in her latest e-newsletter. Your script sounds very interesting. Good luck! :)

Hi Mary - I submitted a script to them a couple of years back that I also felt was appropriate for their comp and never heard a word. Cashed my check and that was it. I never did find out who won/placed. My emails remain to this day unanswered.

My personal standpoint is I'm steering clear, however if you want further info you can probably Google them and you might find something that way.

Congrats, Mary!

I attended the last two Moondance ceremonies when they were held in LA (bridesmaid in both!!) I won't be attending this year as I didn't enter and they are held I believe in Colorado. But good luck to you! Keep us posted please. :)

Flo, that shack in the woods sounds fantastic to me, however I'm upgrading to a cabin as I want to at least be halfway civilized with running water and electricity!! Ahhh...we can dream, can't we?! :)

Mary, the first year I went (two years ago) the ceremony was held at a posh Bev Hills restaurant/lounge and it was a blast. The event was hosted by George Lopez and needless to say he was beyond hysterical. Guest of honor (receiving a recognition award) was Phyllis Diller and I didn't think I had any laughs left in me after George, but I was laughing so hard I was nearly in tears. Even though my two scripts didn't win, just seeing them was a winning sitation for me.

The 2nd time I went (last year) they unfortunately held the event at a theatre in Universal City's City Walk. I say unfortunate as the event started late, the lighting and audio was poor and very few attended compared to the previous year. Robert Culp was one of the awards presenters. I wish they had stayed with the place in Bev Hills. That was a classy affair.

I believe the previous years they held the festival in Colorado, these were the two experimental years in LA.

Good luck to you - keep us posted. :)

No, I didn't enter Reel Women. How about you?

That's great news, Linda. Thanks for sharing :)

Fantastic, Connie! :)

Welcome, Dorothy!

Congrats on making the quarters and good luck to all Moviebyters! :)

Lynette, welcome to the boards, by the way.

I second and third all the others re: Barb Doyon. She's the absolute best and has been my #1 reviewer for 4 years now. Wise choice in sending your work to Barb--you won't be disappointed.

Check out her website--she offers a free monthly e-newsletter chockful of helpful tips, articles and client successes.

Barb's also opened her yearly contest--info on what it's all about and how to enter is on her web.

Good luck - keep us posted! :)

Thanks, Randy. :)

Wow, thanks for sharing, Paula. Where in the world did you find this on IMDB ? What a find!

In this same series the author also offers "Schlinder's List" "Aliens" and "Braveheart." Click on the appropriate links on the left side of his web.

Thanks again! This will undoubtedly help me write more visually just viewing this. :)

Hi Patrick -

What I usually do (or try to when I can afford it) is send the script to 3 different readers at the same time so that they are all reviewing the exact same draft. I then go over what the readers agree/disagree on and what they come up with for alternate suggestions. I also get back with each reader and we go over areas that another reader differed on. Even titles.

I also keep in mind I am paying for opinions and that reader #1 may emphasize an aspect of a story (structure, dialogue, etc.) that reader #2 or #3 didn't elaborate on.

A reader like Barb Doyon not only works in the biz but is a produced writer herself so she's coming from all angles. If I need more clarification I don't hestitate to ask and she's always been more than accomodating in her responses.

Hope this helps :)

Patrick, I re-read your post and you mentioned voice overs.

I have flashbacks in my thriller noir that are also considered taboo. But when integral to the story and presented in a way that they are not distracting and/or take the reader out of the story, they work (or at least that's what I've been told by several reviewers)

I say go with what you feel works in your story and if a reviewer points out the contrary, ask for clarification and/or examples where they do work (as you pointed out in "Shawshank Redemption")

While made years ago, Billy Wilder's "Double Indemnity" is a voice over masterpiece. Perhaps study the classics where voice over was presented (mostly film noirs) to see why they did or did not work in your opinion. Better still, if you can get ahold of the scripts, study them.

Valid points, Paula. I've had suggestions made with my work that were totally against what I felt and believed were how my characters would react or where I wanted the story to go. When I felt this strongly I stayed with my flow. When I felt the reviewer(s) suggestions were valid, I sometimes followed them or took a part of what they suggested and worked with that.

At the end of the day it's YOUR story until you receive a check that doesn't bounce. At that point, unless you are the director/producer as Paula is with her work, it's out of your hands.

And yes, my sensitive skin has had no choice but to toughen considerably since I've had my work reviewed. Although I currently have one script that is just so personal and close to me I've had to set it aside until I can look at the reviews through the eyes of my reviewers (who I respect and trust) I hope to return to that script very soon! :)

Eric's hit the nail also with mentioning subtext. It's so easy (and lazy) to take the easy way out and just write on the nose dialogue. I'm also working on showing more than telling (hard when you love writing dialogue)

Barb has revised her e-book that discusses everything (and then some) that we Q and A on these boards. Check it out--it's a steal at $20.

www.xtremescreenwriting.com

Ben, has the "someone" who referred you to this coverage service used them? What was their opinion? Is this someone you trust?

I've personally never heard of them, but am impressed by the list of who they have read for and the testimonials.

Ben, Barb is offering a contest this year--here is some brief info off her web:

"This year's contest will focus on the query/pitch writers send out to the industry. A query is a sales letter that pitches the screenwriter and his/her project to industry professionals, like agents and producers. The letter is usually 1-2 pages in length (preferably 1-page) and should entice the reader to request the material, whether it's a screenplay, teleplay, TV pilot, stage or radio play.

The contest will accept a 1-2 page query/pitch, any genre for screenplays, teleplays, TV pilots, stage or radio plays."

Click on the "contest" button on her web for additional info. Barb is so unique and so much into helping writers--I wish more comps/readers/etc. out there were as professionally caring as she is.

Hi Connie - Maybe it will help, when you enter comps, to remember what you said in your note to Blue Cat--"MANY PEOPLE THINK DIFFERENTLY. SOME LIKE, SOME NO NOT."

It's like watching a movie--some you like and some you don't. It's the same when we enter our scripts in comps. Some readers find things in our stories that they like enough to move the script up the ladder, but others read this same story and it's not for them.

It doesn't mean they don't like us, the person.

Connie, you are not alone in your winning scripts not making quarters in Blue Cat. I also have entered Blue Cat for the last few years (not this year) and these same scripts that have won and/or placed very highly in many other comps have never made any cut whatsoever in Blue Cat. The notes indicated they had indeed read my scripts, and some of the suggestions to strengthen the story were something to consider, but some were way off base. Right or wrong, the readers didn't resonate enough with my stories to advance them, although these same scripts are continuing to do well in other comps.

Your work has and is continuing to be very well received in many comps and you have made the top 10 in Winning Script categories. That's quite an accomplishment and something to be very proud of.

Don't let one or two or even three comps get you down. Look at your track record!

And keep in your heart and mind that I and many others on this board are very proud of you and glad that you are a contributing member here on Moviebytes. :)

Hmmm...laundromat trailers!

What an inventive way to advertise our work and attract investors, huh? Why bother with film festivals when there's a laundromat on every corner in town. Bigger and more diverse audiences too! And those nickel and dime contributions will add up in no time!

Hollywood, here I come! :)

Connie, I think I received my notes from Blue Cat after they announced the winners.

Anybody here who made quarters receive your notes yet?

After you explained your circumstances to Gordy, did you hear back from him? I remember your experiences with Writers on the Storm and AAA Creative Screenwriting (who did know about your circumstances) Inexcusable in my opinion.

Connie, through all your pain and disappointments and frustrations, one thing has always been consistent and that has been your sincere happiness at hearing about your fellow Moviebyters' successes.

That's the kind of person you are underneath the challenges--but you're also a survivor and you'll be back to Moviebytes again, I'm sure of that. You didn't give up when even in your darkest moments you believed there was no hope or tomorrow. You grabbed on to something you found deep within yourself and when you were ready came back to Moviebytes and shared your story with us.

You really have nothing to prove to me or anyone else, Connie, but yet you have proven so much to me whether you know you have or not. Hard work, determination, and the fortitude to never give up even during the toughest of times.

Wow.

See you in the next comp, my friend. :)

P.S. Gordy--a sincere thank you. :)

www.silverscreenwriting.com

I received an email stating the deadline has been extended to July 15th.

Good luck to everybody who have entered or are going to! :)

www.internationalscreenwritingawards.com

Check out the premier edition of the PAGE newsletter on their web. It's full of articles, tips and script leads.

To everyone at PAGE a huge thank you! :)

If you submitted right before the original deadline, it's possible they haven't started reading your script yet and will allow you to swap drafts. I had this same situation with another comp and they had no problem at all exchanging drafts.

Hi Sarah - Yes, I picked a logline and voted. I also wrote my own logline and submitted it.

I'm looking forward to the next issue already. :)

Try Script City. They have the scripts Ben mentioned and many more. I think they have Grease II and not the first one.

http://www.scriptcity.com/index.php?p=home

1-800-676-2522

Email: info@scriptcity.com

9:00 A.M. - 6:00 P.M. Monday - Friday Pacific Standard Time

I went with #4.

I just winged it, didn't write it down. I think it went like this:

A young FBI cadet...a vicious serial killer...a cunning psychopath...a shrouded vision from the past leads to truth and redemption.

Argghh! Bigtime gong (remember that TV show or am I dating myself, ha!)

By the way, Gene, I think they should add your logline as choice #6 !!!

I'm voting for #6 !

GONG!!!

Okay, who else is brave enough to list their logline?!

P.S. My early writings (back in the stone age) consisted of short stories and novels hence my "literary" approach!! :)

I read this on another site:

"We are still waiting for certain VIP judges to get back to us with their reports, so unfortunately we will not be able to make any announcements re finalists until month's end or early August. We apologize for this delay, after the Writers strike delay, but we are working in strange times. As soon as all voting is in we will send an email update. Thank you for your continued patience."

Anybody here in the finals?

Hey Don, that's fantastic!

No, I didn't enter this year (I should have just for the notes alone on my rough draft - Larry's notes are great)

Good luck to all Red Inkers! :)

Dorothy, I applaud you.

Glad you decided to contribute on the boards and I hope you'll stick around. I'm sure you'll have more success stories to share with us. :)

Connie may just need some time. But I also hope she decides to return. I am keeping optimistic that she will when she is ready. She has a lot of friends here who care about her and are rooting for her.

Thanks, Eric. I'm still in shock as I entered last minute.

Congrats also to Geoff Breuder for making finals with "The Ace of Aces" in the Most Ambitious Script category.

I also saw Christopher Canole has been nominated in a few categories.

Sorry if I missed anybody else.

Good luck to everybody! :)

Thanks, Nathan & Dorothy.

John, thanks for the kind words. :)

Thanks, Geoff.

Hope you can make the awards ceremony.

Thanks much, Janet! :)

Screenplay Showdown was a comp you'd love, Janet. They were affliated with the Nashville Screenwriters conference. Here's some info on them:

Web: www.nashscreen.com Email: Info@nashscreen.com

The competition includes a separate category to celebrate the union of the creative communities of music and film. For this category, we will accept only music-themed scripts: those with a primary music element (biographies, musicals, stories set against a music world background). Some examples would be the scripts for School of Rock, Sid and Nancy, 8 Mile, Almost Famous, Moulin Rouge, Save the Last Dance, Lizzie McGuire, That Thing You Do, The Pianist, Cotton Club, Mr. Holland’s Opus, and Chicago. The Showdown is sponsored by the Nashville Screenwriters Conference and was originated by professional filmmakers. The competition is run by Ed Rugoff of the Chesterfield Writer's Film Project.

P.S. Thanks for the nice words, Janet. I hope you'll give Barb's contest your best shot. Her revised e-book is worth the entry fee alone.

Thank you also, Sarah! :)

Thanks so much, Peter. :)

Thanks, everyone!

Julie, great to hear another film noir fan on the boards! :)

Guys, I'm still numb.

Thanks for all your kind words! :)

Fantastic news, you guys! I'm proud of you all! :)

Thanks again, Geoff! :)

A real pleasure talking to you also, Randy.

Thanks as always for the encouraging words to strive and work hard to fulfill our dreams and goals. :)

Congrats are also extended along with Don to Peter Fraser and Gene (wow--with two scripts) and Irin Evers for making the top 50 finalists! I'm especially proud of my friend Peter as he entered an early draft.

Very happy for all you guys and I hope I didn't leave anybody else out. :)

Thanks again, Mike! :)

IMDB lists Michael Madsen as being attached.

I'm in too in the family category!

My email (in part) advised that:

"Our Quarter-Final judges are now in the process of reading and evaluating your screenplays, and their scores, combined with the scores of the First Round judges, will determine the twenty-five Semi-Finalists in each of our ten genre categories.

We'll finish tallying all those scores in just a couple of weeks. So mark your calendar and make sure you check our website on Friday, August 1st, when we'll post the list of our 2008 Semi-Finalists."

Their web had stated that emails are going out for the quarters and these are not being listed on their web.

Good luck and congrats!

What categories are being represented here?

I'm in family.

I'm rootin' for ya, Lou! :)

Ron, I've seen where "Eclipse" has done well in other comps. Is it more a horror than thriller? Congrats! :)

Last year one of us did - John and his "whale" of a script!

Ha ha ha!!

Although I'm wondering about that umbrella - you must have been hiding behind or under it becuz it took you a day to post this!

Congrats again, my friend! I hope you strike gold in the upcoming rounds! :)

Thanks, Ron. Your script sounds intriguing--I like supernatural dramas. Have you seen "The Exorcism of Emily Rose" ? I don't know if you'd classify it as a horror drama or supernatural, but it's one I always watch whenever it's on cable.

About my PAGE entry:

"Serena's Thunder" is the story of a young Native American girl who becomes an amputee after a car accident claims the lives of her rodeo star family. She goes to live with her father's estranged brother and his family on their Appaloosa ranch, however her physical and emotional recovery is hampered by her grandfather refusing to accept her because of unresolved issues with her father. It isn't until she befriends an unwanted mustang she names Thunder that Serena and the family's wounds begin to heal. Serena learns to walk and ride again and, together, she and her grandfather prepare Thunder for a prestigious Native American horse race.

A family's heritage, a grandfather's dream and even Serena's life are at stake in a race that bridges the gap between the things that tear families apart and reminds us that home is where the heart (and horse) is.

Okay, who's next to step up to the plate and tell us about your entry?

While lurking on another board, I came across this lil tidbit re: PAGE category breakdowns.

"Many of you have emailed me asking how many scripts were submitted in your specific category, and I'm happy to now give you those exact stats:

Action/Adventure: 651 Comedy: 883 Drama: 1072 Family Film: 328 Historical Film: 322 Science Fiction: 414 Thriller/Horror: 533 Short Film: 225 TV Drama Pilot: 210 TV Sitcom Pilot: 176 (Please note: Because some scripts were entered and are being evaluated in more than one category, the total number of entries listed above is 4,812.)"

Thanks, Michele! :)

Thanks, Mara!

I look forward to you meeting you also and putting faces to familiar names.

Congrats to you, Mara! See you soon! :)

Thanks for the effort put worth on your part too, Gene. This is outstanding news!

Jeffrey, congrats on your PAGE quarters!

Irin made some very valid points. My two cents is I always WGA register and copyright my work. Unless I've made major changes to the script, I don't bother re-registering for tweaking.

Good luck in PAGE! :)

Yes, Irin and I both made quarters (in the same category for one of Irin's multiple entries!) Mine is in family.

Congrats to you and your cohort, Patrick. :)

Two thumbs up for "Argument for the Defense" and Martin's logline and everything Gene said. :)

Also, John, I really like your original working title on your new script ("Shepherd's Moon") If you're disowning it, I just might claim it! :)

I still like Martin's logline -- it's clean and tight and gets to the point of the story in my opinion. Maybe you could embelish it to include something about the love story, but be careful about being too wordy.

Good luck, Sun. :)

Much much better! Get in and out just like writing scenes.

One minor note that I'm not sure even matters -- should you put "ex-girlfriend" in the logline? Or just leave as "ex" ?

Very good job, Sun! Reads and flows much smoother while still conveying the story. Hooked me as a story I would want to read. :)

Keep us posted how things proceed with the executive, Sun. Gives us all a shot in the arm hearing success stories (and/or at least landing reads!)

Sun, all of the above plus a brief mention of top-tier contest wins/placements (if applicable)

I like how Patrick opens his query with a "hook" question that entices the exec to read on and hopefully request the script. Make sure your script is in tip-top shape and follows through on your query letter's promise.

P.S. I can't recall if you mentioned this or not, but has your script received coverage from a pro consultant? If not, I can't stress enough how important this is before marketing work. A good consultant will not only provide you with their honest assessment from a market-ready standpoint, but will thoroughly go over strengths and weaknesses and offer suggestions on how to work through problem areas.

There are many such consultants out there, but without a moment's hesitation I can vouch for and recommend Barb Doyon (as can many others on this board) She's not only very reasonable but the best!

Check out her website and sign up for her monthly e-newsletter. Her contest this year is something you might want to look into as well.

www.xtremescreenwriting.com

Sun, your query letter is all over the place. Get in and out without clutter.

This is off the top of my head, but the query below incorporates what you have written in yours:

Dear Mr. : Last month at the VirtualPitchFest, you invited me to submit a love story drama to you. I believe my script ''Conflict of Love'' is just what you are looking for.

''Conflict of Love'' is the story of a young egoistic prosecutor who, after being framed for murder, fights to win back the love of his life and together they uncover evidence that will clear his name.

(insert anything here like you have a degree in something related to law enforcement and/or you are an optioned writer who has won/placed in TOP-TIER screenwriting comps)

I am looking forward to hearing from you soon.

Sincerely,

Your name Email address

Keep your query positive --

"I believe my script is just what you are looking for."

"I am looking forward to hearing from you soon."

An afterthought is you can enter Barb's pitch/query comp now and she judges the entries as they come in and gives you her opinion right away.

P.S. I'd leave the synopsis out! No exec has the time to read it. Your query letter MUST sell the story in a nutshell so strongly that the exec just has to read this fantastic script.

Thanks, Gene. Good point you made as well.

I must give props to Barb--she's the best teacher. :)

Congrats to Geoff Breuder for making quarters with his ace script "The Ace of Aces" in the August Sun Film & Television Festival.

Geoff, you're on a helluva roll! :)

Robert, I'm blushing. And it doesn't take much to make my face redder thanks to my half-Irish heritage!

"I" am the one blessed sharing with you guys and gals. You're a terrific bunch.

Thank you so much one and all.

Randy, my fingers are crossed so tightly I can barely type! Thanks for your encouragement and support on the project.

Thank you, Julie & Don. :)

Thanks, Randy!

Santa, the bottom line is you gave it a shot and you would still be wondering if LA was for you or not if you had stayed home. If you decide to go back to LA someday, you will have a clearer picture of what you are up against.

Are there writing groups, classes, film festivals, etc. in your home base you can participate in?

Or have you explored the idea of writing/filming a short?

Good luck and best wishes.

Good luck and congrats as always!

According to the LOC web, it's all done now by online electronic submission. It does mention if you still want to copyright by hard copy, they will mail the forms but it will cost $10 more to copyright this way.

Personally I'd save a tree plus $10 and copyright electronically, but to answer your question, I don't think it matters whether it's bound or unbound (WGA yes, they want unbound but it's faster to register electronically) I've copyrighted scripts both bound and unbound and the application went through without a hitch but it takes months.

Good luck, Paul.

Trivia: "The Poker Night" was the working title for Tennessee Williams' classic play "A Streetcar Named Desire"

Well, TW certainly had a complicated life, but one thing I've never read is his having an affair with any of the women who portrayed his characters. Frankly, I think he understood women a lot more than some women understand themselves.

I lived in New Orleans during the last few years of TW's life when he was alternating between his apt. in N.O. and his New York pad. The little theatre group I belonged to had put on "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof" and I was the understudy for Mae (complete with pillow for a pregnant tummy) It was a blast! We invited TW to the premiere but I think he was out of town at the time. The theatre was going to put on one of my one-acts (TW was an early inspiration) but I returned to California due to a family emergency.

What a time that was when I was living in New Orleans.

Many of his male characters certainly were no prizes either and had deeply etched character flaws. Stanley Kowalski (how would you like to have him for a brother-in-law?) and Big Daddy just to name two.

Amazing writer. I'm sorry I didn't get the chance to meet him.

Congratulations of a different sort to Irin Evers who welcomed his first baby daughter, Alexandra Rose, born early this morning!

His wife Steph and baby are doing great--Alexandra is absolutely beautiful!

Maybe another writer in the family, Irin? :)

Well, he's done it again.

Major congrats to Geoff Breuder for making the semis in the Landlocked Film Festival comp with his ace script "The Ace of Aces"!

This guy is amazing (and so is his script)...let's hear it for Geoff!! :)

Hi Dorothy - I was reading on the Done Deal board that some writers already received their quarterfinals letters in the mail today. Finalists aren't announced for a few more months.

Anybody here receive their letter yet?

Good luck everybody! :)

Good work, Champion Gene!

Poetist, I would enter a romcom in the comedy category for sure. You're right though, a comp doesn't come to my mind that offers a romcom category. I think they lump all the comedies into one category. Same as dramas, but I've seen a few that do offer "crime drama" as an offshoot from drama and thrillers/mysteries mixed in with horror.

I must say it takes a unique writer to hit the marks and make a comedy work. I have never taken a crack at writing a comedy, but it seems a difficult genre. So much at stake with keeping the laughs going and the story intact. So bravo comedy writers.

Thanks again, Gene, for your diligent detective work.

Great news, Mike! Congrats! :)

Great news, Paula! Good luck on the next round.

And Terry, I'm with you - just missed quarters by 100 scripts.

Adding my congrats to everyone. :)

Thanks, everyone! This win meant so much to me having Barb and my sister Linda as my guests to share this with me. Mark Mahon announced the winners and it was a thrill meeting him. His story is an inspiration (it's on the AOF web)

A big hand of congrats also to Chris Canole who did very well by this festival - in fact he is having a writer's award named after him next year and he will be presenting the awards.

My Nichols "just missed" was for "Serena's Thunder," my only entry.

Good luck to everybody else - it's a hot bed right now with so many comps announcing cuts/results.

Thanks for the great compliment, Patrick. "Chinatown" and "L.A. Confidential" are two of my favorite "modern" noir classics.

Thank you also, Nathan, for the kind words. :)

I had my hopes set high that "The Black Dahlia" and John Travolta's "Lonely Hearts" would swing open and hold open the doors very wide for noir scripts.

Both major disappontments - "The Black Dahlia" was an insult to noir and filmmaking in general. I haven't read the screenplay so perhaps it was coherent, but the film itself was convoluted and just a plain mess.

Somebody owed somebody who owed somebody a big favor me thinks.

Thanks Mike, Rick & Dorothy! :)

Congrats to everybody!

Peter made the semis with a previous draft of "Black Ice Below." I've read his work and am anxiously awaiting the new rewrite. This guy can write!! Real proud of you, friend! :)

Congrats to everyone who advanced (I saw Santa Sierra and Flo Young listed)

That's fantastic - good luck on the next round! :)

Thanks, Geoff!

Rick, according to their web, Nicholls' does not reveal their judging feedback/scoring. But the personal notes on the announcement letters are Greg's way of letting us know - without revealing scoring - just how well we did and how close some of us came to making a cut. I'll tell you, it's a note I always look for when I don't see "Congratulations" as the first word.

Thumbs up to Greg and his professionally-administrated and highly-respected comp.

Letter in the mail.

Santa, if you don't mind my asking, where in LA did you live? A friend of mine is moving down there and has been looking at the Culver City/Mar Vista area. Also Silver Lake and possibly Burbank. Any comments you care to add? I lived in Hollywood for awhile (some years back) but it's changed so much. Thanks.

Hi Flo -

Thanks for the info. I know there are "decent" sections in LA but in my travels it seems to change street by street! I had a friend that lived off Wilshire (Rampart division) and you're right about the noise and energy, but they had lived there for over 25 years and were used to it. I lived on the "quiet" end of Hollywood Blvd. near West Hollywood and the Laurel Canyon turnoff and loved it. The building was art deco quaint and took me right back to my favorite Golden Age era.

Brooklyn, huh? One of the managers at work is from Brooklyn (downtown) and while her family is still there, she's a California girl now and won't go back unless it's for family reunions.

Never been to Minnesota but you'll be in for brrrr winters compared to "sunny California." I remember one Xmas when I was still in LA and it was in the 80s!!

Thanks for sharing.

Thanks, Santa.

Good luck on your move back home. I don't think it really matters where we write as long as we write.

Thanks, Heather! :)

Thanks, Geoff! :)

Janet, The Indie Gathering comp offers a musical category.

http://www.theindiegathering.com/scriptwriters.htm

Thanks for posting Connie's story here, Joseph.

Very humbling.

Connie, if you're still reading the boards, I'm glad to hear you are feeling better and back to writing!

Drop in and say hello to us again soon, Connie. :)

Congrats to Gene and Paul for making the semis with "Unity" -- if I missed anybody else, congrats to you as well.

Good luck in advancing. :)

Hi Jeff -

Could you share a little bit about your script--logline? Genre?

Thanks!

Hi Jeff - Sounds like an interesting story and I'd like to read it.

If you want to work on the revision first and then send it, that's fine. Or send it now. I'm polishing up one of mine so I might not be able to get to your script until this weekend.

jjhunter54@aol.com

Hi Jeff -

Sounds good. Send it over when you are ready.

If this is a story that you believe in wholeheartedly, NEVER GIVE UP!! Get feedback (as you are doing now--by the way, have you gone the consultant coverage route yet?) You might not agree with everything suggested, but be open-minded. Axing away is the tough part. Very tough. Especially the closer you are to your material.

An outstanding guide to everything from A-Z is covered in Barb Doyon's fantastic e-book "Master the Commercial Screenplay." It's presented in detailed but very easy to understand language (eleven chapters and 205 pages) and is a must-have in my opinion. The e-book is available for $20 (a steal) via Barb's web.

You might also want to check out Barb's free monthly e-newsletter; it's jam-packed with tips and articles. Visit her web for more info on signing up.

Good luck - and I'm looking forward to reading your revised draft soon! :)

www.xtremescreenwriting.com

Mary, you gave it your best shot.

Have fun in Colorado and make contacts!! :)

Hollywood Creative Directory:

Harpo Films, Inc. 345 N. Maple Dr., Ste. 315 Beverly Hills, CA 90210

Phone 310-278-5559 Chicago # 312-633-1000

Melody Fowler-Head of Development Sara Scott - Creative Executive

This is from IMDbPro (Chicago office info)

110 N. Carpenter Chicago, IL 60607 USA Phn: 312-633-1000 Fax: 312-633-1111

Ellen Rakieten - Executive Harriet Seitler - Executive

Good luck, Mary! :)

Plus if you win and relocate to LA, there's at least a job already set-up (with a nice salary to boot)

Good luck to those that are entering.

That's good news to hear, Robert!

Congrats and I'm keeping my fingers crossed for you. :)

Hi Jeff -

Received your rewrite and I'm looking forward to reading it. I'll email you when I'm finished.

Thanks again for sending it.

You're right about those darn ole loglines, Robert. They make or break a read request and are harder (for me) to put together than the entire script.

Congrats again! :)

Congrats to Geoff and Mike for their Official Selection finalists cut with the Prince Edward Island International Film Festival for "The Ace of Aces" and "The Knuckleballer."

Great going, guys! :)

P.S. And birthday greetings to Geoff as well.

Were you hiccuping or stuttering, Peter? Or was it the late hour you posted?!

Well, it's the congrats that counts!

Hi Dorothy -

Thanks for the congrats, but I can't take the shout-out away from the winner, Jim Conover for "Major Pauline." I was nominated, but Jim won. He's an amazing writer and I had the priviledge to place a name to a face - so congrats to you, Jim!

"Lady Jazz" did however win Best Crime Drama screenplay in the same comp, Action on Film. :)

Thanks much, Robert & Irin. :)

Thanks, everyone. Appreciate your support! :)

Thanks, Janet. :)

That's outstanding, Jage!

I can't say enough good things about Barb - she's just the best.

Now go knock 'em out with your killer script, Jage. :)

For making BlueCat's top 20. Quite an accomplishment.

Here's to making it all the way to the top! :)

Thanks so very much, Dorothy. :)

"Lady Jazz" A 1940s jazz singer goes on the run when she becomes the prime suspect in the murder of her ex-lover--the twin brother of the LAPD's first black Homicide detective.

I've heard 3 to 4 (no more) and plenty of white on those pages.

Break up dialogue monologues with a bit of action. It reads and flows better.

Remember less is more.

Janet, the logline gives the gist of the story, but the character has no choice but to flee for reasons beyond being a suspect and this is revealed in the read. My mother and uncle both ran in the 1940s California jazz circles and prejudices against white/black couples were more leniant in this atmosphere. Obviously a story such as this would not work if set in the Deep South during the same time period.

Eric, thanks for your kind words. Same back at ya - your "Nature of the Beast" is MY head shaker why it hasn't been snatched up yet. :)

Janet, your statement that World War II did not allow black servicemen to fight for our country is inaccurate and an injustice to the men and women of ANY COLOR that stepped forward and gave up their lives to keep our homeland and other homelands safe and secure.

You can continue to question my script all you want (when you haven't read it) but please get your information straight re: several issues you are stating here as facts.

http://www.redstone.army.mil/history/integrate/chron3b.htm

Paying fees to enter comps and/or film festivals for networking, exposure, prizes offered, etc. is one thing.

Paying an entry fee to a production company holding a screenplay comp is another (in my opinion)

I've read that story someplace also, James.

Back in the "Golden Age" (no, I wasn't around then) the majority of the studio writers were 40s plus (without getting into other specifics.)

I don't know when this youth-oriented take-over began, but they'll have to wrestle the pencil out of my hand.

A sellable project coupled with excellent writing rises above the age of the writer in the feature world. It's a different hemisphere in TV however from what I've read and heard.

Write on!

Thanks for sharing, Joseph.

I've also heard the stories that if you go to a meet and greet, don't bring up "old" movies from more than 10 years ago or you will receive blank stares.

Worse yet, don't favorably compare your script/pitch ideas to pre-DVD movies either.

Amen, Dorothy. :)

Second that as well, Dorothy. Bobbette is right on! :)

"Write & Wrong" Lifetime TV comedy/drama.

So did she/he end up selling a script? :)

Larry, I would say you are probably, for the most part, correct on the genres in correlation with the ages of the writer.

When I've attended screenwriting awards ceremonies, I would say the majority of the dramatic script writers are over the age of 40. The comedy, sci-fi or horror writers are usually younger. Not always though. Some of my "older" writer friends (but they think young!) write comedy and sci-fi and their stuff is very well-executed and funny and thrilling (and have won awards)

When I attended a few Pitchfests within the last few years, I was complimented more than once on my animation while pitching my scripts. One exec even complimented me on my smile. I'm just saying this to show a lot of how we present ourselves at meetings, etc. is first impressions and if we are the quieter type (which I really am) but exude confidence and a friendly "bright" approachable personality I think this will go over more than how old we are. And I don't mean just how we dress or fix our hair or any of that. It's the "glow", the vitality we bring to the table.

Bobbette, good luck to you and I'm rooting for you! A good friend just moved down to LA this past weekend. I have no doubt she'll be fine in that tough town--she's so upbeat and a go-getter.

Paula said..."and a willingness/ability to properly research subjects."

So critical to any script.

You don't post much, Paula, but when you do it's always appreciated. :)

www.xtremescreenwriting.com

"The e-course's objective is to help a screenwriter create a script geared toward making a first sale. For a first sale, a screenwriter needs to prove their ability to deliver a commercial product regardless of genre or budget. This requires very specific commercial attention to a script's plot/execution, characters, dialogue and scenes."

Got a script stuffed in a drawer or an idea you're dying to cultivate into a sellable screenplay?

Dust off that script and turn your ideas into a commercial screenplay through Barb's course.

Hope I don't sound like an infomercial--but you can't beat Barb when it comes to knowing what it takes to turn an ordinary script into one that will garner attention.

Congrats to all the quarterfinalists! I saw several Moviebyters on the list - I won't name names in case I leave somebody out.

Great job - good luck on the next go-around! :)

Hi Mary -

If you haven't already, check out the Done Deal boards (sorry, Frederick!) There's a guy named Jake Schuster who posts there and he writes books. You can probably send him a private message without having to post on the board if you're not already a member. I'll bet he can help you out. :)

Done Deal is another site I refer to. Their boards post an assortment of biz-related topics and the site offers member-only and free information listings.

They have a sticky post on the boards re: LA areas/neighborhoods (pros and cons) that you might find interesting, Bobbette.

http://www.donedealpro.com/default.aspx

Hi Rachel -

I would say it depends on how long ago you sent the letter and how pertinent are these changes? If you just sent the letter and the changes are very important, I'd send them another one. If it's been awhile since you sent the letter, it could be a pass or it could be they just haven't gotten around to opening the letter so you might as well send another one.

Do you have email or telephone contact info? I've found that letters are a waste of paper and stamps (unless this is the only way a particular company requests to be contacted) but an email and certainly a phone call oftentimes gets me a read request.

Good luck! :)

Good idea, Elaine. I've found festivals (especially) and comps not listed here on Moviebytes that I've entered. And I have the no-frills account (meaning no money to sign up)

There's also a section that lists festivals/comps that accept screenplays as opposed to the main list (some that only accept films) It really helps narrow down the search.

Frederick - Moviebytes is still #1 with me!! :)

Not to mention the score was 20 out of 20!

Dorothy, I'm so happy and proud for you knowing what you've been through. No doubts no more, lady - YOU ARE A WRITER!!

Congrats! :)

Congrats on your recommend from Barb, Bobbette. :)

That's shouting off the rooftops wonderful news, Paula!

Congrats! :)

Check out Barb Doyon's e-course and/or her e-book.

www.xtremescreenwriting.com

Special congrats to Irin Evers for making finals with his family script!

Congrats also to anyone else I missed and all the finalists.

Good luck in the next round. :)

Terrific news!

Good luck on the next round. :)

Congrats, Robert!

Here's hoping those pennies lead to big bucks! :)

Ooops! I re-read Irin's post...I had gotten ahead of myself. But my intentions were good.

Better luck to both of you on the next comp then!! :)

Congrats, Mike, on your 2nd place win in the Downbeach Film Festival. That's terrific! :)

Hi Mary - That's what it's all about - networking and having a great time!

Did you come across some leads for book editors?

You might want to also consider contacting the SouthWest Writers comp (listed here on Moviebytes) Their comp offers many novel and short stories categories and also courses. I'm sure there's an editor or two that could be referred to you. :)

Congrats Martin, Patrick and Rick Tobin. Sorry if I missed anybody else.

Good luck on the next round. :)

Good news, Patrick. You're on a roll!

Best of luck in the next round. :)

Ditto.

Irin's writing style adapts to the script's genre and his work is very visual and entertaining.

Great work, Irin! :)

Patrick, certainly add yours to the above-mentioned. I'd lean more towards the supernatural genre, but it could also possibly fit into horror (you mentioned in another post about comp categories) What genre did Barb recommend on your coverage?

Congrats, Greg! :)

Hi Martin -

Yes, I use Withoutabox quite a bit. The only issue I had was some months back, I indicated on the online application that I wanted to submit a hardcopy (as opposed to sending a pdf.) but Withoutabox sent the pdf. which unfortunately was an earlier draft I still had uploaded on their site. I hadn't figured out how to upload the current draft so that's why I wanted to send the hard copy (I've since figured this out - it's really easy)

Other than that incident, it's been easy and quick to use. Just make sure you upload the draft you want going out (you can delete/add drafts)

I also find their comp listings quite comprehensive. I've discovered several comps (mostly film festivals) that take screenplays (I'm in the finals of one)

You can easily keep track of submissions and they give you a confirmation/tracking # when the submission is successful. I use the free basic submission service, but they also offer a paid package where you save on entry fees. I think it's around $100.

I'm noticing more and more comps offering submissions through Withoutabox. And some that you can only enter through Withoutabox. That's why I decided to give it a try.

Hi Randy -

Yes, I copyrighted a script in mid-August using pdf. It was self-explanatory, took about 20 minutes. I haven't received the certificate yet (although you receive a cert. # online) but the wait has gotta beat 6-9 months the old way!

Hi Thomas -

If the character is wandering around the house, I create a master scene slug.

INT. JEFF'S MOTHER'S HOUSE - DAY

Jeff picks his way through the messy living room towards the kitchen, adjusting pictures on the wall with a shake of his head.

KITCHEN

Jeff waters the wilting plants lined across the sink's windowsill.

BEDROOM

Jeff, exhausted, tumbles into bed and pulls the pillow over his head.

If the character is staying in the living room, I'd write the slug as:

INT. JEFF'S MOTHER'S HOUSE - LIVING ROOM - DAY

Hope this helps.

Congrats, Mike! :)

See where some Moviebyters made the finals...good luck to all! :)

Great news, Geoff! :)

Thank you, everyone. I appreciate the kind words.

Congrats to Irin on his 2nd place win (it was wonderful finally meeting you!!) and to my fellow finalists Barb, Eric and Peter (finally got to meet Peter!) Such wonderful and supportive writers/friends.

Thanks again. :)

Thanks, Geoff. Congrats to you as well and to all the quarterfinalists and honorable mentions.

Good luck on the next round! :)

Thanks, Mike & Ron!

I was told the CC web will be updated and will list the screenwriters and other pertinent info.

And yes, it was most definitely worth entering and attending!! :)

Thanks, Mary! :)

Steve, I'm so happy for you. This is such wonderful, "shot in the arm" encouraging news. Keep us posted - if you have the time! :)

Thanks, Heather! :)

Thanks, guys. Your enthusiastic support always means a lot! :)

Everyone's kind words are really appreciated. Thanks! :)

Congrats, Robert, for placing in the American Gem logline category for "Flat Pennies"

Hope they soon bring you some fat bucks! :)

P.S. Congrats to others I might have missed!

Congrats! Good luck in the next round. :)

Thanks, Dorothy.

Congrats to fellow Moviebyters - hope we all meet again in the finals! :)

Marty & Irin - check your emails. I forwarded the email I received listing the semifinalists.

Hey Irin - leave some room for the rest of us! Geez - three scripts got in! One in drama and two in comedy - you're competing against yourself! :)

Congrats, Anita! :)

Congrats, Moviebyters! :)

Not to take away from Anita's fireworks for a great win, but congrats Geoff & Robert. :)

Wild stab in the dark (no pun intended) but maybe a high concept horror? If there is such a thing?!

Congrats to whoever made the semis!!

Robert, I hope WriteMovies--besides offering a sincere apology--offered you at the very least free entry in their next comp. This is as bad as making the cut and not even being listed! :(

And we're survivors, Robert. We'd have to be to keep coming back after being spit on, chewed up and puked back out again (or we're crazy for putting up with it!)

But those times when we hit a right chord with readers are sure delicious, aren't they? :)

Hi Matt -

Congrats on finishing your script! I would strongly advise you to shift your attention from agents and competitions to letting the script cool down. It's still too "hot" for you to look at it objectively right now. I never send out my first drafts.

Consultants can be very helpful and the ones with exemplary reputations will not only thoroughly explain strengths and weaknesses but will encourage your questions. And the best ones are not out to drain your wallet dry either. Others may disagree and say consultants are a waste of time and money. It does take some experimenting (and some $ unfortunately) to find the best fit, but when you click with the right consultant you and your work will benefit.

There are of course some comps that offer feedback as part of their entry fee and some that offer feedback for an additional fee. You might want to explore those comps if you're anxious to test the waters.

Check out Barb Doyon's web for info on her services. She also offers a free monthly e-newsletter with very informative articles and tips.

Good luck! :)

www.xtremescreenwriting.com

Congrats to all the finalists!

Thanks, Peter, for always supporting "Lady Jazz"! :)

Good post, Walter. Glad you're back (I hope?)

:)

Irin Evers is in with two scripts.

Congrats to all and good luck on the next round! :)

"Writers Network" is announcing their quarters. Their sister comp, "Fade In," is the one that extended their deadline to November 30th.

Thomas, the genre restrictions you are referring to with xtremescreenwriting (Barb Doyon's consultant service) is for her monthly price specials.

She reads all genres at any time and is the real deal.

www.xtremescreenwriting.com

Thomas, check on Barb's web under "Do I Refer Material To Industry Professionals?" in her Script Review section.

Believe me, if you have a top-notch MARKETABLE script, word gets around.

Quarters and Semis e-blast list is out - saw some Moviebyters.

Congrats to all!

Anybody make finals? :)

Terry - I just emailed you the e-blast I received.

Anybody else that didn't receive this e-blast, feel free to email me and I'll forward it to you.

jjhunter54@aol.com

I'd listen to the consultant, especially if they work in the biz and are one you respect.

Was "Juno" a shooting script you read?

Spec scripts especially need to look and read as clean as possible. "More" and "cont'd" were the norm in scripts written years back, but frankly I find they clutter up the page and I don't use them.

"Screenwriters are like aspiring actors and actresses, there's a lot of them around but most people in Hollywood won't give them the time of day...unless they were just seen marrying Britney Spears."

John's quote on his IMDb profile.

RIP John.

Condolences to your family and loved ones.

A WGA Affiliated agent has agreed to do a 1-hour teleconference for Extreme Screenwriting clients who purchase any review between Nov. 17 - Dec. 12, 2008.

www.xtremescreenwriting.com

Patrick -

"The Killing" 1956 - Stanley Kubrick

Logline: Crooks plan and execute a daring racetrack robbery.

One of my favorite films (it was filmed documentary-style)

Ideas are everywhere. No story/script "in its entirety" is that unique that it hasn't, "in some variation," been thought of and/or filmed before.

Every writer has their own style (or should) and will make their script their own.

Continue on with your scripts, Janet.

"Eric, what makes you think I want to be a screenwriter? Im an exdancer. I had a dance musical idea. I wrote it. I didn't have any plans to do anything thing else." Janet, then you wrote the script just for yourself and don't plan to market it???

Congrats, Greg! :)

Shell & Walter - Glad to "read" you are both back! :)

Hi Cheryl -

Since the prodco cannot see you (I tend to talk/pitch with my hands) maintain the animation in your voice. Not breathless rapid-fire excitement, but more in line with you have the greatest script in the world and they've got to make this type of emotion. Sincere belief in the marketability of your script will shine through.

Good luck - keep us posted! :)

Red Inkworks immediately comes to mind.

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone! :)

Ditto Terry re: Barb's Extreme Screenwriting. Check out her web and monthly specials (she's got a great one now re: a teleconference with a WGA affiliated agent)

www.xtremescreenwriting.com

Also, the Acclaim comp provides feedback to all entries.

Congrats to Geoff and the Langlais Bros. for their honorable mentions! :)

Add my thanks. I've made some great friends directly from this board. :)

www.xtremescreenwriting.com

The deadline to share in Barb's Extreme Screenwriting teleconference with a WGA afiliated agent is fast approaching.

Admission to the teleconference is with the purchase of a standard or expedited review by 12:00 noon (PST) Wednesday, December 10, 2008.

Screenwriters will have the opportunity to ask the agent a question.

As a bonus, the agent has agreed to consider loglines from screenwriters attending the teleconference.

This could mean a potential read from a Hollywood agent and maybe even representation!

If you don't have a script that requires reviewing, but would like to attend the teleconference, Extreme Screenwriting will credit your account and you can use the purchase at a future date.

Extreme Screenwriting looks forward to helping you reach your goals.

Happy Holidays!

Thanks, John!

This competition is incredible! So many promise the moon and the stars--this one delivers the goods. Suzanne's getting my script out there through doors I could never open on my own. My fingers are crossed so tightly I can hardly type this.

CCIF has info on their web about an upcoming comp and Oscar gala. If you believe in your script and it's commercially market-ready, get it in this comp. There's a good chance if Suzanne and her readers feel the same way, those 120 pages will be campaigned.

Happy holidays, everybody! :)

Sharing our table (with Irin and myself) were fellow Moviebyter finalists Barb Doyon, Peter Fraser and Eric Sentell (Eric with two finalist scripts!)

Quite an evening sharing this red-carpet/black-tie gala celebration with great friends and fellow screenwriters.

P.S. Geoff was a finalist too but took a raincheck on attending the Awards Ceremony. I think he's waiting to fly out (from Australia) for his Oscar nomination for "Ace of Aces" to don the ole monkey suit! :)

Janet, how about this:

When a pretty black dancer from Chicago attends her college roommate's country wedding, the last thing she expects is being danced off her feet by an ardent cowboy in a Stetson.

Just wanted to extend holiday greetings and wishes for a spectacular and winning 2009 to all my fellow Moviebyters.

We've set the groundwork this year on our specs...next year's the harvest.

Frederick - thanks again for the boards.

Happy holidays! :)

A "strong consider" is also stamped on a script that just slips outside the "recommend" perimeters.

I know Barb's super-swamped, but it sure is good seeing her back on the boards! She gives so much of herself to help out screenwriters and truly wants to see us succeed. Barb absolutely rocks! :)

Patrick, I just bought the "Michael Clayton" screenplay. I'm looking forward to reading it after watching the movie a couple times.

"Chinatown" is one of my all-time top favorites, by the way. Every time I'm in LA, I look for the places where they filmed the exteriors of the houses. Love the architecture.

"Forget it, Jake. It's Chinatown."

Now if I could write like Towne! :)

Damn, if only you were a producer, Eric! :)

http://www.simplyscripts.com/movie.html

Simply Scripts is a great resource and usually has what I'm looking for.

Seems like there was a small thread about this prodco some time ago. I don't believe there was much info to share.

It's not uncommon for a prodco to not request a release waiver. Some do. Many don't. Just keep track of who and where gets your work (goes without saying you should never send your stuff out until it's WGA registered and/or copyrighted of course)

Good luck!

Hey, Bobbette! Welcome back! I was wondering how your relocation went.

If you're looking for employment within the industry, there are several temp agencies that specialize in biz assignments. And with your legal background, I'm sure they would have work for you.

I've heard the Alameda Writers Group is a great screenwriting network that supports its members. And the WGA gives lectures all the time and you'll be bound to run into all kinds of networking opportunities.

I'm really happy for you - keep us posted. :)

Happy New Year!

Ditto Eric.

Thanks for sharing, John. :)

Barb's January issue of her free monthly e-newsletter starts 2009 out with a bang! If you don't already subscribe, go to her web (link below) and sign-up.

This issue features a highly-informative article on writing the spec script, as well as a lengthy "tips" section. I also saw several Moviebyters listed in the "Featured Screenwriter" section for writers whose scripts received that cherished "Recommend" from Barb's coverage service - congrats!

Barb's fantastic Extreme e-course resumes next month. I've heard from fellow writers who have taken this course and they've raved how much it has drastically improved their work and enriched their understanding of how to write and market a commercial spec.

www.xtremewriting.com

www.xtremescreenwriting.com

Sorry - this is Barb's correct address for her web! :)

Thank you, Bobbette.

Your script's logline reads like a real winner - I knew exactly what genre your script is even before looking at the category Barb classified it as.

Congrats again on your "recommend." :)

Randy, it's the thought that counts! :)

Fantastic news, you guys!

Also congrats to Terry for "Calliope"

Good luck in the next round. :)

Barb's January Extreme Screenwriting special is a great one--buy one standard review and get one free. You can use the reviews now or stock up for later. It's the last time she's offering this special in 2009 and there are only 5 openings left (from 25)

Also, Barb's Extreme Screenwriting e-course resumes in February. It's a fantastic course and I've heard from writers who rave how much the course has dramatically changed their outlook on writing a commercial script.

www.xtremewriting.com

Great news. Good luck on the next round. :)

Again, congrats and good luck on the next round! :)

www.xtremescreenwriting.com

Correct web address for Barb! :)

"...for profit writing."

Music to my ears, Gene.

I was going to say "welcome back" -- instead glad you're still lurking.

Congrats and good luck in the next round! :)

Some Moviebyters are still alive!

Congrats to one and all! :)

Barb's 5th annual Extreme Screenwriting contest is open!

There's some great prizes this year and feedback is provided to every entry.

In addition to the above, the Grand Prize winner as well as the four Category winners will be promoted to 55 production companies, managers, agents and actors who have signed up to receive info on these winners.

Barb's Contest Special--purchase a Standard Review and get a free contest entry. First 25 only.

Good luck everybody!

www.xtremescreenwriting.com

Congrats, D!

Irin got in also (quarters) with his family action/drama. Very tough comp to make any cut in, as Robert said.

Congrats to both of you! :)

...in the American Screenwriting Competition!

Congrats to the L Bros. and "Unity"

Good luck in the next round, guys! :)

Never heard about "and." Although too many in the narrative will bring the line count more than it should be.

(1-2 lines; 3 or more looks chunky on the page. Less black/more white)

"ing" "is" and "are" are discouraged. Keep everything in the present.

Learned the hard (and expensive) way, Mike!

I keep the dialogue down to no more than 4 or 5 lines and if the character must continue speaking, I break it up with action.

Another thing that really works wonders for my final polish is I always proof on the pdf.

Seems when I proof off the screen on FD or even when I print out a hard copy and scrutinize with a red ink pen, I still invariably end up missing teeny tiny stupid things like a dash in the slug, a period, an extra space between words, etc.

I don't know why, maybe it's becuz I magnify the pdf. onscreen to 102%, but this method of proofreading has saved my tail many times by catching last minute boo boos before the script goes out.

Congrats! :)

Irin - my bud - HUGE CONGRATS!! :)

Agree with Nathan, especially for kids.

For adults, I'm not as year specific, but will indicate a general age: 20s, mid-20s, late-20s, etc.

One minor character is simply identified age-wise as "a gnarly geezer."

Does the actor have their own production company? I've gotten reads going that route (meaning the companies that will even read a spec without a referral or an agent, manager or entertainment lawyer bringing it in.)

Query their manager and agent. Be prepared to be asked if you have other actor attachments already lined up and/or money already behind the project.

It's easier if you have a rep take the project in for you, but somebody once said the world's flat and it was proven it ain't.

Good luck!

I stand warned!

But at least I didn't refer to him as an "old fogie" as mentioned in another thread. I found that description quite insulting.

http://www.weeklyscript.com/Chinatown.txt

Happy for you! :)

Congrats, Geoff and Chris! :)

http://www.burbankfilmfestival.org/

Eric, Robert, Barb, Peter, Irin, Ron, Mike, John, Terry, Nathan, Julia, Patrick...thank you so much for your kind words!

I wish you all unending success in your writing endeavors. :)

Very happy for you, friend! :)

Congrats, Ron! :)

Late to the party - congrats! :)

Thank you, Heather & Geoff! :)

ASA Quarters - good going, friend! :)

Randy, James & Sarah Jane - thanks much! :)

Irin, I'd chose the Bev Hills FF hands-down. It's a well-known international film festival held at the Bev Hills Hotel (unless they change their venue) star-studded and an honor to be accepted. Burbank was going to be held at WB but switched at the last minute to a nearby university.

Congrats and good luck to your friend! :)

Thank you so much, Evie & Orlanda! :)

Impressive site, Orlanda! :)

http://www.wantickets.com/EventDetail.aspx?e_id=52508&title=The_9th_Annual_International_Beverly_Hills_Film_Festival_Screening_Pass__Awards_Night_Gala_Tickets

Cut and paste the above link for ticket info.

If that doesn't work, try www.wantickets.com, then look up the Beverly Hills Film Festival on their site.

There were over 1000 screenplay entries and approximately 50 Official Selections.

The "finalists" are the 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners to be announced at the gala Awards Ceremony on Sunday night, April 5th, at the Beverly Hills Hotel.

Good luck! :)

Thanks, Dorothy & Walter, for the shout-out! :)

Not yet.

The festival will be updating their web and posting additional info within the next few weeks.

Congrats! :)

Evie, I would just call the WGA and explain the situation. You might need to give your SS# to verify it's you calling (I think you still need to provide that to register the script, don't you?)

If you're going with Barb Doyon at Extreme Screenwriting for your coverage, you made the best choice! She's also got a special that if you purchase a Standard Review, you get free entry into her Teleconference with a WGA signatory agent.

See her web for more details.

www.xtremescreenwriting.com

Mike, my first year entering and attending, but from everything I've read, it's first class all the way.

Check out the link in my other post. There's info on there about the film screenings.

When I called the festival yesterday, they just said additional info will be posted soon on their web. Maybe you can call them and explain your situation and they'll give you details. I spoke to Steve at their general info # - super nice. :)

WGA SIGNATORY AGENT TELECONFERENCE!

Purchase a Standard Review (redeemable anytime) and receive a free entry in the Teleconference.

Space is limited to the first 25 clients. Participants can ask the Agent a question & submit a logline.

In the last teleconference, the Agent requested scripts & one screenwriter gained representation!

See Barb's Extreme Screenwriting website for information on her Teleconference, her March coverage special and her annual screenwriting competition where all entrants receive feedback.

If you aren't already receiving Barb's free monthly e-newsletter filled with articles and tips, sign-up info is on her web.

www.xtremescreenwriting.com

Evie, punctuation is fixable. And I think your nervousness is actually a good sign as it means you really care enough about your writing to get it out there for a pro's opinion.

With your sense of humor and willingness to listen and learn, you'll reap the benefits of working with Barb.

You might want to also consider her e-course. I'm still blown away how the course has taken my writing to another level.

Aaron, please contact Barb for more info on her Teleconference.

www.xtremescreenwriting.com

Thanks, Bobbette! :)

Have to jump on the bandwagon and ditto Eric re: Barb Doyon's Extreme Screenwriting coverage service.

Before I sent scripts to Barb, I used several other screenwriting coverage services. Some affiliated with screenwriting competitions. Some not. Some useful. Some not. Some still in business. Some long gone. Prices ranged from several hundreds to around $50.

Then in 2004, I discovered Barb.

Barb's covered all the scripts I'm currently marketing. I endorse her services 150%. She's simply the best deal out there in both her professional feedback coverage all the way down to price.

Barb's well-respected in the industry; she also provides coverage for studios, production companies, actors and A-list screenwriters. She's purposely chosen to keep her prices extremely low to her non-industry screenwriting clients becuz she knows how important affordable professional coverage is to unsold spec writers. But don't think for a second that an affordable review equals a skimpy review.

She's detailed, detailed, detailed. And backs up her analysis with what works, needs work, and how and why and what to do about it.

To Barb, this is far more than a business. She cares about writers. And she backs this up with not only affordable coverage with monthly specials, but affordable everything.

An e-course designed to commercialize scripts and fine-tune them until they are market-ready.

A free monthly e-newletter packed with informative articles and helpful tips and client brags (she's shoutin'-from-the-highest-mountaintop-proud of her clients' accomplishments)

She also offers Teleconferences with a WGA signatory agent that not only sheds light on questions each participant asks, but with the hope that submitted loglines possibly cultivate into representation.

And a yearly contest that includes feedback and prize packages writers appreciate.

I owe so much to Barb and her coverage service that the least I can do is thank her and endorse Extreme Screenwriting as much as I can.

I'm a client for as long as I write!

www.xtremescreenwriting.com

Hi Connie -

Congrats on making the finals in the Beverly Hills Film Festival with two scripts! Quite an accomplishment. I was told there were over 1000 screenplay entries.

Connie, it's good to see you back on the boards, but most importantly, that you are continuing to get your work out there. I've seen your scripts making finals in other comps also.

I agree that flying down from Alaska to California is a long way - but I'm sure you'll be at the festival in spirit.

Congrats again - so proud of you! :)

Handsome son, Connie!

And that's great that he will be transferred to Anchorage and close to home.

Bless you both! :)

I've seen the short (thanks, Irin!) and it's fantastic filmmaking.

Have fun! :)

Just a reminder that deadlines are approaching for the Extreme Screenwriting Agent Teleconference and the early entry deadline for Barb's annual screenwriting contest.

Early entry contest deadline is March 31, 2009

Final entry contest deadline is May 1, 2009).

All entered screenplays receive feedback.

See Barb's web for additional info on the Teleconference and contest.

www.xtremescreenwriting.com

You guys rock!

1st place - Peter's "Black Ice Below" 2nd place - Geoff's "The Ace of Aces"

Congrats to all the finalists! :)

Evie, you mentioned on another thread, if I'm not mistaken, that Barb's review is your first on this script.

Get two more reviews from different coverage services.

Compare all three reviews and see if two out of the three agree on the strengths and weaknesses.

Go from there re: rewrites.

The teleconference, as Eric stated, is also an opportunity to network with a WGA signatory agent.

Barb bends over backwards to help screenwriters turn scripts that need work into marketable and commercial projects through her coverage service, e-course, free monthly e-newsletters, offering Teleconferences so that those who don't have access to a WGA sig. agent can ask questions and learn, as well as an annual contest with prize packages that also includes hooking up winning/finalist scripts with her connections at over 50 production companies, agents, managers and actors.

She's read and covered every imaginable genre and diverse themes for not only unsold spec screenwriters, but working A-listers, studios, production companies, and actors that trust and rely on her.

If you are concerned that Barb doesn't "get" your screenplay, go over the review with her.

Thanks, Steve.

I think this might be the most shout-outs in Barb's newsletter for her clients! :)

Evie, yes--the Teleconference is like a three-way call. You don't have to say a word if you don't want to, but after listening to the other writers ask their questions and the agent's replies, you'll probably feel inspired to ask a question of your own. Nothing sincerely asked is ever stupid; even if you think your question is, more than likely somebody else is wondering the same thing.

You can do a couple things right now re: your script. Get a few more reviews but don't change a word until you have all the reviews in front of you. Make a list of everything the reviews agree on, both strengths and weaknesses. Access what they don't agree upon (one says this, the other says something else, somebody else ignored that entirely) and see if YOU resonate with the reviewers.

There comes a point when a writer must trust themselves and if something feels "right" to you in your story, then follow your gut. But if all the reviewers say the same thing about a particular aspect, go over that part with a fine-tooth comb. If they unanimously picked up on something, a producer's without a doubt going to question this also. However, if you're filming your own work, then you can do whatever you want.

You can also step away from your script for a couple weeks and let it cool down. A lot of times, when you're not working on the script physically, you're going over it in your mind and by the time you sit down and start working on it again, you've gotten past the hurdle and the script comes together.

You've had people say your story is interesting, so it sounds like you have something there. It just needs fine-tuning to bring everything together and cohesive.

A reviewer's opinion is one opinion. Take it or leave it. An assortment of reviewers saying the same collective things are a red flag. It's up to you.

Good luck! :)

Look at the header for this thread.

That's right.

It's not the Evie and Janet Show.

Advice was offered early on from screenwriter to screenwriter. Get it? Screenwriter. The word doesn't define color.

It's one thing to whine and bitch and complain that nobody understands your writing, but when you both bring this board down to the lowest of low with a piranha frenzy of unjustified personal attacks on Eric--you disgust me.

Somehow I don't think you two really give a damn what anybody on this board really has to say becuz you can't see past yourselves.

Congrats, Geoff.

Thanks, everyone, for the shout-out! :)

http://207.5.19.9/boards/showthread.php?t=48374&page=6

A poster on Done Deal copy and pasted the list. Scroll down a few posts and you'll see the list.

Good luck to all who advanced!

Oops, sorry, Karen! Didn't notice you also listed the link to Done Deal.

Irin, are you leaving any spots left for anybody else?! :)

My buddy Peter Fraser's in with two - congrats! :)

Barb Doyon reviews all my work, as well as trusted screenwriter friends. But Barb's the first and last word.

www.xtremescreenwriting.com

P.S. I would consider Barb's coverage just as important if not more important than agency coverage. She reviews scripts for over 55 prodcos, studios and actors and has direct access to many agencies and managers. Her rates are intentionally kept low (no mortgaging the house for a Barb Doyon review) and she offers both standard and expedited coverages. Expect an honest evaluation by someone who is actively working in the biz.

www.xtremescreenwriting.com

Sensational! :)

Well done! :)

http://www.trackingb.com/

Ditto, Stephen.

That's great, Stephen! :)

This is fantastic! :)

Hey, wait a minute! There was an earlier thread on this. I think we're losing track of all these wins that Irin's racking up.

But still...congrats again! :)

Irin Evers is one of the most honest writers I have the pleasure of knowing. There's no way he would continue to enter his work in contests he's not eligible for, not to mention if he became ineligible after entering, he has the integrity to be upfront and pull his work from that contest. He also doesn't have a jealous bone in his body and is truly happy when his peers succeed. It's always been his way with not only me both to my face and in emails, but to other writers I know as well. Including writers on this board.

Irin deserves our congrats for his accomplishments, not put-downs. His humor was misinterpreted and he deserves an apology.

Lady Day, Anita O'Day, Sassy, Hawk, Coltrane, Miles, Chet Baker, Dexter Gordon, Ben Webster, Houston Person, Roy Hargrove...now you're talking.

Hardly my scene, Evie. :(

Irin, awhile back you mentioned you were entering, so I purposely didn't. **

Seriously, I hope you get in. :)

** I'm teasing!

Pachouli is the money incense. :)

I must have missed that thread. :)

How 'bout just an "Irin wins..." sticky thread with blanks to fill in?

It's too much trouble typing "Irin wins..." over and over again. :)

Very helpful post, Larry, that didn't sound harsh to me.

There's lots of taglines and synopsis' on the MB script listings.

Save those for when the producer requests them.

And they won't request anything without first reading a short, enticing logline!

I was wondering the same thing.

Nobody can post those chapter-long posts like Ron - 'cept maybe E. :)

Irin, I think the time has come for you to start your own competition. However, you have so many fans on this board alone, how can you be subjective (I know, the script is supposed to speak for itself, but those extra twenties stashed on page 51 might help)

You can also use all the entry money to set yourself up with new diggings and a fine car and...

I'd better shut up and start writing my new Irin Evers Screenplay Competition winning entry and save up my $20.

P.S. Would you prefer a family script, comedy, or fill in the blank?

:)

hahahah!

Btw, Joseph, good luck at AOF! :)

Not trying to be funny, but bring breath mints.

Nerves lead to a dry mouth. Just don't suck on the mint while pitching or you're liable to swallow it or, if you're especially animated, spit it out across the table into a face!

I've seen this happen at a Pitchfest.

Sipping water works as well, but mints are easier to lug around.

Especially if it's a phone pitch.

Congrats! :)

No grenades, Evie.

I've never listed my scripts on any public board, not even Inktip. There's a lot of pro/con about this, and I'm of the camp who wants to know who's reading my work (and so does my agent)

My loglines are listed on my Winning Scripts page.

Great news!

Best wishes for the next round! :)

Ron posted on the Fade In thread.

Welcome back, Ron! And congrats on your win and check for the Tennessee comp. :)

Alex -

Barb Doyon with Extreme Screenwriting.

Barb's coverages are very insightful, fast and inexpensive.

Check out her website for monthly specials and to sign up for her free monthly e-newsletter.

www.xtremescreenwriting.com

Congrats to all the finalists and honorable mentions! :)

www.xtremescreenwriting.com

Category winners are up!

Congrats to all the winners - special congrats to my buddy, Peter Fraser (comedy)

Good luck to all when the Grand Prize winner is announced Monday. :)

Congrats and good luck! :)

Thanks, Irin!

Add Robert Ward for "Flat Pennies"

Congrats and good luck to all! :)