Message Board

Jamie is right. Hal Croasmun's classes are excellent. I took one of his proseries courses and highly recommend it for someone who has at least one finished screenplay. You'll be giving and getting feedback from other students in your group. There's a very good chance you'll end up with an extremely commercial script and have Hal to thank for it.

For the neophyte, I'd suggest taking one or more of his specialized classes first. His subtext class is terrific.

Hal keeps the number down to around 25. Mine started with 26 and ended with 20.

BTW, the proseries will focus on high-concepts and Hal prefers that you not bring in an existing script as your class project. This way you're raw and ready to follow his methods. I was reluctant at first because I had what I thought was a high-concept first draft but Hal talked me out of using it and I'm truly glad he did. Not only do I now have an extremely commercial script, I have also acquired a whole new list of skills which have taken me to an entirely new level of writing.

Download a Short Form TX, fill it out and send it in with your script and $30.00.

High Concept is:

Unique

Appeals to a wide audience

Can be told in one sentence and you see the whole story.

I thought it had some hilarious subtext. I'd call it a dark dramedy. The chats with Jesus reminded me of FX's RESCUE ME and the title reminds me of HAWAII FIVE-O.

...comedy? Actually, Michele, while I was in prison I decided to make the switch to comedy so I could kill people with laughter and not have to serve time for it.

I rented it on Netflix. Glad I didn't waste my money buying it. Troy Duffy had to have been the most difficult and abrasive personality to deal with since Don Simpson. He certainly stepped on the wrong toes and had nothing but contempt for everyone. He got exactly what he deserved.

This documentary should be required viewing for anyone about to break into the biz. Unless you're prepared to be extremely flexible, easy to work with, reliable and able to control your ego, you're likely to follow in Troy's unsuccessful footsteps.

David, I don't understand why you didn't approach publishers or agents. Events such as the Maui Writer's Conference over labor day weekend are a great way to meet lots of them. I always considered self-publishing a last resort.

You don't really need to be wealthy to attend writer's conferences. Most have volunteer positions available which often allow you to meet the right people. Some offer substantial discounts to staff volunteers and allow them to attend various events for a discount or even free. I did this in the past and it worked terrifically. Great networking possibilities.

I never said it'd be easy, David, but in my opinion a true artist should be prepared to make sacrifices. I'd hate to tell you what I went through for my first novel but I actually ended up behind bars because of it. Not just any jail either, the hell on earth third world kind.

When I post on this BB, I don't give a rat's ass about grammer and punctuation. I will express my opinion spontaneously and if someone wants to waste their time nitpicking, that's their problem. I'm not gonna be paranoid about pleasing my anal friends out there. So I want a waiver!

For the record, if I had time to read a novel and was at all interested in this particular genre, I'd buy David's book just to help out a fellow Movie Byter.

Right on, Michele!

C & C hasn't really been canceled. They realized they couldn't compete with American Idol so they're giving it a two month histus.

What can I say, Randy, it was late.

Hers was the best acceptance speech I ever heard. Goerge Clooney's was funny as well.

What I would give to have her in the White House rather than our current crop of tyrants.

Ellum,

I wasn't offended and I'm sure I'm not alone. I often post late at night when I'm tired or I'm in a hurry. I really don't give a damn about being perfect and neither should anyone else. As Randy once posted, I'm the king of the typos. So what?

Submitting something professionally is another story. My agent is a stickler for typos so I take extreme care.

How 'bout cuttin' your fellow posters some slack and stop bieng such a bitter prick? I've noticed you've been very helpful in the past to writers on other threads. Don't tarnish that image.

Ellum -

If you're expecting me to be ashamed about being imprisoned, think again. Since you felt the urgent need to bring it up in a lame attempt to discredit me, I'll explain.

I was quail hunting in Texas and...

Actually the one time I did mention such an experience on these boards, I was referring to being locked up for assault while I was an aid worker in central Africa. I was arrested for defending myself against a brutal army sergeant's vicious physical attack. He ran a stop sign and wrecked my motorcycle. While I was on the ground with a concussion, four broken ribs, a broken elbow and a seperated shoulder, he kicked me in the stomach several times until I got up and simply defended myself. I was thrown in a horrible jail and tortured. When my aid organization found out, I was immediatly released and issued an official apology by their superiors.

As I recall, I only mentioned this dark experience for a reason and it was ages ago. Although I don't recall what that post was about.

You really are a nasty pathetic piece of work, aren't you, Ellum? I truly pity you.

Avoid camera directions Use of POV is obsolete

FADE IN magazine puts out a manual called the "Spec Format Guide". It has the current industry standards.

Thanks, guys. Barb Doyon ran a terrific competition. The commercial checklist which all entries received was worth more than the entry fee. It was the only contest I would have entered "I Married A Porn Star" because it's so high concept.

Troy, it won't mean squat as long as you have a great story and terrific characters. When you're ready to market your script, send it to a professional proofreader like Derek at Proof Edge and let him worry about the minor details. He'll tell you exactly what to do with that tree.

Don't listen to some nasty old fart who's information is often questionable.

Amen!

DJ -

Here's what I know. Barb Doyon helped me learn the ropes and I'm eternally grateful.

A year is the standard contract commitment. That's what mine is. I met my agent in person and liked her right away. That was important to me. Amount of contact is up to you and your rep. I like to keep mine to a minimum. There's nothing worse than a pesky client. Your agent or manager may set you up with an attorney but they're easy enough to find anyway. My agent is a WGA signatory. That's important. 10% agent fee is WGA mandated. Managers can charge more because they aren't regulated.

Best of luck with yours.

I think we have a winner, Sue! You get the dubious award for the most pathetically lame post ever.

Sue,

Unless you aspire to enter the porn industry, I suggest a more professional approach.

"Rear Window" is my favorite. The scene when Raymond Burr sees Grace Kelly indicating Burr's wife's wedding band to James Stewart was priceless.

Couldn't agree more. Those idiotic posts were making me sick.

Sue,

I'm one of those people who have emailed Terri about your annoying posts. I can't speak for Terri because she's a good practicing Christian but on behalf of all us pagans out here, religion and politics should not be on these boards.

Your absurd comment about supporting this despicable mess in Iraq because we're spreading Christianity is ridiculous. This disgusting attitude should have been buried after the crusades and certainly has no place in the 21st century. What's the Christian mantra now, praise the lord and pass the ammunition?

If you are the "good Christian" you constantly claim to be, stop attacking Terri and stop making fun of her name. Put yourself in her place. Isn't that what good Christians are supposed to do?

I agree with the digs at this film. Except for the knock on William Hurt. He was up for an oscar. I really expected more though. Maria Bello's frontal nudity was positively gratuitous. The sex scene on the stairs? The only thing believable about that was the friction burn on Maria Bello's back. Don't get me wrong, I love gratuitous nudity and implausible sex, just not in film.

I don't know if angry sex really worked when the true emotions of Bello's character at that point should have been more complex. He's been living a lie with her. She should have felt betrayed, cheated, concerned for the welfare of her children. Is that sexy? Maybe to my wife but not normal people.

So he went to the desert on a horse with no name and cleared his soul? Come on! He must have hooked up with a shaman taken shit load of peyote. I just didn't buy it.

I

Keeping my fingers crossed for you. It's long overdue.

Ellum,

You obviously didn't see "Starship Troopers".

At least you boys seem to have an exit strategy.

I agree, God bless our troops and God pity them too.

Sue, the rest of your idiotic post makes about as much sense as us being in Iraq in the first place. Your train of thought is similar to those morons in the White House who got us in this fucking mess.

Everyone and their mother now knows you're a devout Christian but do you have to keep reminding us every goddamn day?

Sorry, PJ, but I firmly disagree. A professional writer has an obligation to create an accurate timeline and plausible plot. If things don't make sense, fix 'em.

Just make sure when you fall, you fall up.

I'd definately go straight to production companies. No self respecting agent would touch it wih an eight inch, I mean ten foot pole. I saw a special on cable about that industry. It featured one elderly woman who did wardrobe and has written 25 produced scripts and is still popping them out.

Ellum, have you ever considered a career as a motivational speaker or perhaps a mentor? Why not let the guy dream? I'm gonna take a wild guess that you haven't read his work. For all you know it's strong enough to do what he predicts and even better. But then why should that stop you expressing your chronic negativity? Not knowing what you're talking about has always been your forte.

This thread reminds me of Frank Capra's "It's A Wonderful Life". You've got your overly optimistic protagonists and one venomous old man committed to hurting others. I can't imagine how it must feel to be unfairly attacked by a ranting character assassin with an arsenal of erroneous slander. Hey, wait a minute, I know exactly how it feels.

Unfortunately, like Terri Dickey, I feel compelled to defend myself on this ridiculous thread. I have little doubt that Ellum will respond with more malicious fictional nonsense. He always does.

For the record, I NEVER assaulted a police officer. I happen to have an extensive background in martial arts and was forced to defend myself against a vicious attack by a brutal army sergeant. He was a barbaric thug, not the innocent public servant that Ellum painted.

I was never a missionary. At the time of this confrontation, I was a project director for Action Kusaidia, the one worthwihle aid organization for the ultra corrupt Zaire government and tyrannical dictator Mubutu. Whe had 40,000 Hutu refugees under our care, built small roads, bridges, clinics.

I made incredible sacrifices during my eleven and a half years in east and central Africa and don't appreciate being falsely accused of being the antithesis of what I was. Especially by the pathetic likes of Ellum McCurdy.

It makes me sick to see Ellum repeatedly do his best to destroy the hopes and dreams of so many aspiring writers. He seems to enjoy the emotional pain he inflicts on others. How the help he sleeps at night I'll never know but then I suppose the truly wicked of this world have no conscience and probably sleep like babies.

People shouldn't be afraid to post on this board because they fear being attacked by Ellum. Sadly, that is exactly the atmosphere he has created.

And BTW, Terri Dickey has bent over backwards to help aspiring writers on these boards for as long as I can remember. For her to be grouped with Ellum is completely unfair.

Mary said it right, bravo twice over. Can't wait to see your name on the golden palm.

Terrific win, Paula, congradulations.

If I could just step out of the 4th demension, I'd learn how to spell.

Ditto!

I always thought the ten commandments were pretty cut and dry since they were written in stone.

All kidding aside, Kieslowski's use of metaphoric symbolism is absolutely brilliant. I've only had the pleasure of viewing "Red" and "White" so far. I was blown away by his ability to capture the essence of human nature. I would imagine his interpretation of the ten commandments is positively facinating.

To all you mothers out there, best wishes. If you're a screenwriter and a mother you deserve a special note of admiration.

Most likely you didn't advance.

The Catholic church is indirectly responsible for the population explosion and proliferation of AIDS in 3rd world countries because of its ridiculous stance against the use of prophylactics.

And don't even get me started about their absurb policy on marriage annulments. My parents were married for 35 years and the church granted my mother's request for an annulment. This officially turned my siblings and myself into bastards. If that's not self-serving, what is?

This said, I still believe these boards are not the appropriate place to discuss religion or politics. It offends too many people on both sides of the fence. There are plenty of things about the THE DA VINCI CODE we can talk about without getting into the pros and cons of the Catholic church.

And the viewers as well.

There's always Alcatraz.

Sometimes longer.

How 'bout "Murder From The Grave"? It seems a bit more visual with a sense of less redundantcy.

Define DOWNSIZE. Does this mean he'll focus on medium budget? Maybe his next film won't have so many dazzling special effects and Tom Cruise's king's ransom of a salary and points. My scripts are all studio level but none have mega budgets. Perhaps Mr. Speilberg has finally come down to my level. I can't see him doing low budget fare but you never know.

Anyone know the name of Owen Wilson's manager or agent?

Thanks, T, but the SAG info line only gives their agencies, not the names of their particular agents or managers.

Thanks. The Information has been acquired.

Here's a technique I picked up from Karl Iglesias:

(Title) is a (Genre) about a (Description of hero) who must (Outer goal) or else (Dire thing will happen).

The example he used was:

(E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial) is a (fantasy) about a (lonely boy who befriends a stranded alien, and) who must (help him get back home) or else (the alien will die).

Great thead, Barb! I'm a pitchfest virgin so the Hollywood event will be my first. I bought several Expo Seminar pitch DVDs to sharpen my techniques and can't wait to use them on hard targets. The list of companies attending is quite impressive and I've already researched and selected my prey. The tip I hear the most is to always show them how passionate you are about the project you're pitching.

Try IMDb PRO or THE HOLLOYWOOD CREATIVE DIRECTORY.

DonnaMarie

My mistake, didn't notice you'd mentioned HCD. I checked IMDb Pro.com but there's not contact info for Pendle View LLC or Craig Nicholls. They're not in the WRITERS GUIDE TO HOLLYWOOD PRODUCERS either. Sorry.

D Jay, you've obviously forgotten about the Marx brothers.

Congratulations, Barb. I'm keeping my fingers crossed you make it all the way to the top. Couldn't happen to a nicer and more talented person.

Way to go, Linda, keep up the good work.

Anyone have contact info for producers A. Kitman Ho, A.K. Ho or Alex Ho?

Try producer Patrick Rizzotti at FORTRESS ENTERTAINMENT and producer Ryan Seashore at MIRACLE RIDER. They were looking for sports movies last month.

Francis -

There's no harm in entering contests. All you have to lose is the entry fee. I'd also recommend taking an online writing course. Hal Croasmun runs a great series at ScriptsForSale. I took his proseries and it made a huge difference.

If your structure is sound and story is strong, your language limitations shouldn't be a problem.

Try Barb Doyon's Extreme Screenwriting @ bscreen2000@yahoo.com Coverage is only $60.00 and it's worth many times that. Barb's coverage has helped me win a contest and acquire an agent. She's not just the best for the money. She's the best reviewer I've ever had.

I write comedy and at the risk of sounding like a broken record, I recommend Barb Doyon at Extreme Screenwriting. She did a great job on mine.

That's a bit of a broad question and a rather difficult one to answer. One of my favorite films of all time is "The African Queen" but I don't feel it is really about Africa as much as bout Kate and Bogie's relationship. Forest Whitaker's new film about Idi Amin looks terrific but it only focuses on Uganda's tragic history. "Hotel Rwanda" was painfully realistic and extremely hard for me to watch since I lost hundreds of good friends in that senseless slaughter. "Out Of Africa" was amazing but primarily focused on the lives of colonials. There have been several excellent films released about South Africa's bloody history such as "Zulu" and "A Dry White Season".

So asking what the best films about Africa are is like asking what the best films about America are, except Africa is many times larger, has a much longer and richer history and an extraordinarily vast range of cultures.

Thanks, Randy. and best of luck to Terry, Jean and the rest of my fellow semi-finalists. Barb runs a terrific contest and I highly recommend it to eveyone. If you're tired of contests using unqualified readers, you might want to consider this one next year.

Never underestimate the bad taste of the American people, especially in film, politicians and plastic surgery.

It's a bargain.

Dear -

It certainly sounds as if you and your husband have some serious problems to work out, him in particular. If he's degenerating into someone you really don't like and possibly fall out of love with, you must learn to talk to each other. I couldn't imagine how terrible I'd feel if I had driven my wife to the point you are at now. I would be horrified if she needed to reach out to strangers for a therapeutic dialogue. I'd be disgusted with myself! Tell your hubby to wake up and smell the toner. Don't let him put all his passion into his writing and have nothing left for his family. Don't chase a dream if it's uncatchable. You have my sympathy. Unless you're blowing smoke up our asses. Then you can just bite me. If not, good luck.

Congrats, Cynthia! Your script must be excellent.

Barb does so much for her fellow writer's it's beyond belief.

I enthusiastically echo Jean's endorsement. No one's better than Barb.

Jim -

The problem has to be on your side of the border. I've NEVER had one problem with Barb's services and neither has any of the many people I've recommended her to. In actual fact, no one has ever been easier for me to contact.

Perhaps it means you indulged your characters rather than challenge them.

If you really want to know, I recommend a script consultant. Someone like Barb Doyon.

Actually I quite enjoyed the first two episodes. How could you not feel for the poor chap who froze up during his pitch, obliterating his big dream? The second episode had exercises in creativity and teamwork. The three nerds and their cool FX who made the other competitors pucker up their butts.

I've always been a sucker for shows about filmmaking. I don't think I ever missed an episode of "Project Greenlight" is spite of many being a real bore.

After viewing today's results show, I stand corrected. It's as if they've done their best to make the show as boring as possible. What a waste!

That whacky cab short was the worse piece of crap I've ever seen. The director is certainly an arrogant shit who should have gone to film school. The one about changing a light bulb really sucked as well.

I was very surprised the one about "get a room" made the top three and not Andrew's vomiting alien short. If that guy wasn't mentally challenged, I don't know who is. Further proof the American public has their heads completely up their asses when it comes to voting. I don't know why I was surprised, we did reelect Bush.

Bill - You have eight more coverages for the same script? You're certainly a sucker for confusion. That's what we call serious overkill. If I were in your position, and thank God I never have been, I'd send it to someone whose opinion we all value, someone like Barb Doyon, see what she says. If Barb says bury it, buy yourself a shovel. Remember that too many opinions can lead to a major clusterfuck but if all those opinions are negative, they might have hit the nail on the head and you're screwed.

And merry f...ing Cristmas to the rest of you too!

That was Christmas with a lisp.

Way to go, Jean. You only write winners.

I'm writing a lighthearted musical comedy about verticle challenges coupled with orientation confusion and extraordinary carnal urges.

So could we hear from any transgender nymphomaniac dwarfs out there? Anyone?

Bobby,

Where are you getting your information? A good logline isn't three sentences, it's one sentence.

This entire thread is a ridiculous hypothetical, as I tried to make clear in my previous post.

I wasn't going to post on Bill's thread simply because it's Bill's thread but once again I see an urgent need to correct his erroneous information. DO NOT take a laptop with text display to a pitch meeting. Visual aids are fine as long as they don't detract or distract from the storytelling. You job is to go into that meeting and get them interested in the story enough to request your script.

It was a ridiculous question. Black turned boring generic into high concept. Can't say I was that crazy about "Kiss Kiss Bang Bang" but how could you dislike "Leathal Weapon"?

Speaking of William Goldman, I heard him say his favorite movie was "Princess Bride". I expected "Butch Cassidy And The Sundance Kid", which he wrote during a Christmas break while a college professor. God what I'd give to have such an ability. My current project has taken six weeks and I have five scenes left.

Screenwriters need to know the players. Not just the great writers, the studio suits as well. This is a tough biz and ya better be prepared or you'll lose out.

My mother and brother are pious religeous fanatics and I don't think they've actually read ten pages of the Bible. During one heavy rainy season is central Africa I was bored to tears but had read every book I could get my hands on except one, THE BIBLE. So I read it cover to cover. I thought about the way it'd been written and couldn't imagine the original writing process - not until I read another book, James Michener's "The Source".

Now I have a close friend who is a Rabbi. He also happens to be a respected Hollywood agent who hip pocketed a script of mine several years ago. Anyway, he's a nice guy but imagining him in a room with four or five other rabbis and agreeing on events which supposedly occured many decades before is a bit hard for me to swallow.

I loved the line in "Trading Places" when the butler masquerading as clergy drank from his flask and slurred to the villian on the train something like, "Religion is a wonderful thing, when taken in moderation.

Highly recommended! I just read this very helpful little book by my good friend Alexis Niki. It's full of tips on everything a writer needs, covering virtually every topic. Input from dozens of producers and experts like Barb Doyon, Hal Croasmun and many others. If you truly wish to master the craft and business of screenwriting, this is a must buy. I believe it's only available on Amazon.

Do not mention title. If you spoof it, that's okay but a hommage could be construed as a cop out/copy cat. It all depends on how you present it. Whatever you do, make it fresh and brilliant or don't do it. Beware the politics of Hollywood.

That's a different situation and quite acceptable. It'd be considered true hommage and not just a rip off.

Jeff

You simply can't avoid pitching if you really want to succeed as a screenwriter. There are a numerous learning tools you can try. Check with The Writer's Store. There's all kinds of lectures by the pros. Some deal with phone pitches, the one minute pitch, three minute pitch, etc..

How commercial is your material? Contests are fine but they don't normally focus on the most commercial.

Any of your scripts HIGH CONCEPT? Hal Croasmun @ ScriptForSale runs a great program called the Pro Series, dealing with how to write for today's market.

Two of my favorite films, so terrifically emotional. I should imagine there are many of us out there who truly related to the Forrest Gump character and not just because we're stupid or somethin'. I own both and watch them at least once a year. Such rich characters. Forrest's line when Jennie threw rocks at her childhood home because her father sexually abused her, "Sometimes I guess there's just not enough rocks" was one of the best ever written. Incredible subtext!

They may have broken a few "Hollywood Rules" but the skills the writer's employed were extreme. Hal Croasmun teaches similar techniques and skills in his ProSeries. Highly recommended!

Forgive me for misquoting Forrest. Guess it's time for me to watch him again.

Way to go, guys. Wow, Jean, you are certainly kicking butt this year. Terrific! Keep up the good work.

Jean, you rock! Now this and your excellent script "Lady Jazz" won it two years ago. Fantastic! You own that contest. You should be extremely proud.

I've asked a stupid question or two in my time so I suppose I could be considered by some to be a poser as well. I remember Ellum was always jumping up poster's noses for typos, poor grammer or whatever. I didn't feel it was his place back then and I don't think it's kosher to tap dance on Ben now. Frankly I recognized Ben's style in the title of this thread without having to open it.

I do believe Douglas had some valid points.

How 'bout we keep the tactics of the Bush administration off these boards and allow posters the freedom to contribute without fear being insulted?

Colin -

Am I the only one having trouble paying for the brief coverage on google?

Ten years ago I wrote a screenplay about the senseless slaughter of African elephants titled "Tears Of Ivory". It was a solid action adventure but a bit too preachy to be marketable. When I heard Japan recently sent a whaling fleet to sea with plans to slaughter 50 humpback whales this year, I was enraged and seriously tempted to write a script about it but immediately realized how commercially futile that would be.

I save my preaching for the magazine articles I write but if I can't help myself, which is quite often the case, I try to be as subtle as possible about it.

I hate to be the one to break it to you, D Jay, but if you're ever fortunate enough to get a writing assignment, you'll probably only get five weeks or so to come up with a first draft. That may seem impossible to you right now but with the right techniques, it's not.

Colin is a busy boy but the product might well be worth the wait. It certainly was for me. Colin did brief coverage for two of my scripts and did an excellent job.

She's not just good, she's great! I'll email you one of the coverages she did for me in the past. I've used her on seven different screenplays.

I'm sorry but Ben has the right to ask any question he wishes. If he bothers you that much, simply ignore him.

Paula, I respect you and Randy but it's really not your place to police these boards. Keep in mind that we were all novices once and "stupid questions" often comes with the territory. What ever happened to writers helping writers? When Ellum died, may he rest in peace, I'd hoped the venomous personal attacks would be buried with him.

Best thing to do is focus on production companies. Start with small ones. Get one interestered in your project and getting an agent will be a piece of cake.

I always knew Steve had crystal balls.

My assistant's wife was an apprentice witchdoctor. One night she took it upon herseft to bring the head bone shaker to my house to cast a protective spell and predict my immediate future. After getting me to drink an assortment of mystic beverages she read my scalp and declared I wouild be dead within 48 hours.

The next night I was tooling along on my motorcycle with a lovely tourist on the back. Out of nowhere villans with machetes emerged from behind bushes and pummeled me with coconut-sized rocks. I took one square on the forehead but never let up on the accelerator. The next day I discovered they'd been paid by the witchdoctor to knock me down and chop me up. This would have given her unquestionable credibility.

My point being, if the "psychic" is able to manipulate your future actions, I'd think twice about not taking her seriously. Good luck Steve, I hope yours works out better for you.

I can't believe I took the time to read this crap. Dumbest thread ever! Is Billy Bush related to that fool in the White House?

Fade In's Hollywood pitchfest is terrific.

Barb's not only top notch in quality, she's also the best bargain in the consulting biz. It's simply amazing how reasonable her rates are and the specials she runs are incredible. This month she's offering a two for one deal that's unbelievable!

It's not the age. It's the mileage.

A page turner is a well written story with a decent pace, gripping suspense and unprecdictable action. Every script I write is a "page turner". If yours aren't, rewrite them until they are. Even the comedies!

I've just finished a terrific teleconference series run by Philippa Burgess of Creative Convergence Inc.. Marketing has always been a necessary evil for screenwriters. Until I took Philippa's course I was almost phobic about it. She actually taught me how to do it and have fun. I'm also now completely focused and totally organized. Don't take my word for it. Check out her website at http://www.creativecvg.com/yoursignaturestory.php

Ben -

If you write at the same level as the screenwriters you listed and have a similar track record, then perhaps you'd be justified skipping the opinions of qualified consultants. However, I'd give a thousand to one odds that you don't. Personally I wouldn't even consider putting a screenplay on the market without first receiving feedback from at least one consultant, preferably two. I swear by Barb Doyon for the first critique. I firmly believe she's the best for the money in the biz. Depending on the genre of the script, I select one consultant out of several I've used in the past, depending on the script's genre.

In my opinion a screenwriter without a pedigree who thinks he wouldn't benefit from professional feedback is as arrogant as he is delusional.

In my opinion your best bet to find the right partner is to join a screenwriting group or take a class. This way you can see your potential candidate's work ethic, skill level and likability.

I've had coverage from numerous readers who read for studios but as I've always said and will continue to say, Barb Doyon is the best deal in town. If you haven't used her yet, you haven't been reading these boards. Everyone and their mother endorses her for a reason. She's the best.

For names of lawyers and agents who work with first timers, check out First Time Writers in the Who's Buying What section. Make your own list and keep it handy. Unfortunately marketing is essential for a screenwriter with or without an agent or manager. These days you have to be part writer and part salesman. I've taken taken so many screenplay marketing classes I've lost count. You might want to consider this.

When a company says they want your submission to come via a lawyer, they're specifically referring to an entertainment attorney.

If you haven't taken a minute today to give thought to the brave souls in uniforms who made the ultimate sacrifice, please do.

Also to the great Sidney Pallock, who I had the privilege to work under in Africa. He was a spectacular human being.

Barb has an excellent expedited service. I don't know about you but once I've sent a script for review the sooner I get it back the better. Like Jean, I use three different reviewers. So far I've always considered Barb's input above all others.

This thread is a real study in human nature, especially Calderwood. Man, you are one strange dude. You crack me up. Almost being turned into the FBI for threatening a poster scares the crap out of me. My file must be eight inches thick. Especially during the days of Ellum.

Far as Ben is concerned, I can tell his threads a mile away just by reading the topic name. If I'm in the mood to waste a little time I might open one up but if I'm not, I don't. I am rather curious as to which contests Ben won. I've been scanning contest results for years and don't recall ever seeing his name.

I echo Ben's endorsement with extreme enthusiasm. Read Rima's terrific book and loved it. She dissects the agent's perspective brilliantly. Buy her book and learn the business or you're really missing out big time.

I knew if Ben hung around long enough he'd start a thread I could get squarely behind. Way to go, Ben!

When you say star I assume it's not an unknown you seek. I was told by a prolific indy producer last week in LA that she goes to the stars agent but not the American agent. Apparently most "stars" have agents in London. They are apparently much more open to this kind of thing. If that doesn't work for you, I suggest trying his/her manager.

I'm not in the habit of promoting industry pros, except perhaps for Barb Doyon at Extreme Screenwriting. If you haven't used Barb's script consultant service you're missing a golden opportunity to elevate your material to its max potential.

Now I'd like to throw another name out there for you to consider. If you're like me, you absolutely dread marketing your scripts. Queries and cold calling are almost painful. Right? Well it's not that way for me anymore and I can thank Philippa Burgess at Creative Convergence Inc. for showing me the light.

Don't take my word for it though. Philippa's next Million Dollar Screenwriting & Content Career teleseminar course starts July 14th and consists of six parts. Dates will be July 14, 15, 21, 22, 28 and 29. Once you've taken her course she offers Alumni calls that drill down into specific topics. Do yourself huge favor and check her website: www.creativecvg.com It's helping me open a lot of doors I'd been afraid to even knock on before.

Jean and Paula hit the nail right on the head but I'd like to point out that screenwriting is a craft. As a screenwriter you owe it to yourself to acquire and develop as many skills as you can. Master skills such as subtext so you'll be a better judge about the feedback you receive.

Like Jean I use multiple consultants but the one I swear by the most is Barb Doyon.

A big congrats to Jean Hunter for her terrific script "Lady Jazz" which just made the crime drama finals with the Action on Film comp! Jean has dominated the contest circuit with all her terrific work. Way to go, Jean! Keep up the good work.

I hate sounding like a broken record but as zero hour creeps closer I'd like to remind everyone this is something well worth checking out. I'm really looking forward to the call and Philippa Burgess is incredible!

This is a course all about selling to Hollywood or taking your screenwriting career to another level.

Do yourself a big favor and check it out at:www.screenplaybyphone.com/career.

While I completely understand the concern of undiscovered writers about competing against accomplished pros, in reality that's the name of the game. When you submit a script to a producer, you're not only competing against every Tom, Dick and Harriot out there who has yet to break in, you're competing against seasoned pros as well.

You should be prepared to match your work against anyone in the biz. Let's face it, we're in the big pond now and it's up to you if you want to be a big fish or a minnow.

Think about it. If you won or placed in a contest against writer's with real credibility, you'd be taken a lot more seriously.

Martin, I agree completely that the rules should be obeyed and enforced. The contest organizers should take immediate action and the rule breakers disqualified.

You must admit though it's a great sneak preview of what lies ahead in the shark infested waters of Hollywood. As you yourself wrote "let the buyer beware."

Just found out that Jean's terrific script is gaining more steam.

Action on Film has "Lady Jazz" up for the HOLLYWOOD SCRIPTWRITER 2008 WRITTEN WORD AWARD.

I'm keeping my fingers crossed for you, Jean. Couldn't happen to a more worthy writer.

Aloha and keep up the good work.

I've been taking one course or another for the past four years and this was absolutely the first time I was sad when it ended. Partially because it was so much fun but mostly because the information Philippa teaches is priceless.

I've always dreaded marketing. Cold calling gave me chills and my queries would go unanswered. Since I took Philippa's course that's all changed.

Today I queried five companies and got four requests for scripts. I can't believe it! It's as if someone magically turned on the lights and it's beautiful!

I'd just hate to be one of the 7.

Read it and loved it. Jean is a truly gifted writer. Her characters are so visceral. Excellent work, Jean! I can't figure out why it hasn't sold yet.

An "average scene" is about three pages. If your scene runs five pages it'll be a bear to shoot. There's really no minimum length, especially during an action sequence. Of course there are always plenty of exceptions.

I'm not a big fan of jazz but I loved Jean's script.

Janet, you're criticizing something you haven't even read. Don't turn this thread into anything other than what it was meant to be, a tribute to Jean's amazing script and talent.

The curriculum for Barb's E-course is quite impressive. It will definitely give you the ammo you need to hook that elusive option or first sale. Jean's spot on about what it can do with that pesky script gathering dust. If you can't afford it or you're simply too busy, make time and sell the kids if you have to, you owe it to yourself and your craft to take this course!

Well Jean's done it again. "Lady Jazz" and "Serena's Thunder" are finalists in the Century City International Film Festival. Jean's become the Tiger Woods of the contest circuit.

Something tells me she might know how to write.

Go High Concept and make your marketing easier. HC is ALWAYS preferred by agents and producers. Take time developing your concept. Make sure it has a strong hook.

Hal Croasmun of ScriptforSale runs a great program called the proseries. He focuses on the proper development techniques of a High Concept. I've taken three of his 5-6 month courses and swear by them. They'll take your writing to a professional level.

Thomas -

It takes imagination to come up with a high concept.

I can't believe I'm having to defend it.

"ET" "RAIDERS" and sequels "Jaws" "Splash" "Tootsie"

I could go on and on.

"TOOTSIE" An unemployed actor with a reputation for being difficult disguises himself as a woman to get a role in a soap opera. "RAIDER OF THE LOST ARK" An adventurous archeologist is hired by the government to find the Ark of the Covenant before the Nazis. "JAWS" When a gigantic great white shark begins to menace the small island community of Amity, a police chief, a marine scientist and grizzled fisherman set out to stop it.

These and the others fit the definition of High Concept. They may be at the bottom rung of the High Concept ladder but they do qualify. Something like "Air Force One" would be a stronger example, "Independence Day" even stronger. It doesn't matter if they're rooted in serials or what genre.

Thomas -

Do yourself a favor and check out Hal Croasmun's ProSeries. You'll learn what high concept is and how to develop concepts which qualify as HC.

I wish I had time to teach you but unfortunately I'm swamped.

I forgot about Barb's e-course. It's excellent and only cost $20.00. It's 205 pages of priceless information.

Way to go, Irin! Sounds like a fun story.

So you don't care about selling your work? Must be nice to be independently wealthy.

As a professional screenwriter you need to consider marketing or your work will merely gather dust on your shelf. A professional screenwriter should consider commercial viability from concept. Pitching a script that's High Concept is ten times easier than pitching one that isn't. You want to grab that agent or producer while you can. You want to give them a logline they can take out and sell with one or two lines.

Producers and agents say concept is king and the king of concepts is HIGH CONCEPT.

I'm happy to say Jean won best screenplay at last night's black tie gala. She was a natural on the red carpet as well.

Irin Evers took 2nd place with his terrific family/adventure.

There's a bright future in store for these two future A-listers.

Just my humble opinion.

Do yourselves a favor and don't sweat the small stuff. Save all that stress for your emotional scenes and future pitch meetings.

I've found the best thing to do is to submit, keep note and forget about it until you're notified. I like to keep a dated list tucked away and out of mind. If I get good news, great. If I don't hear from 'em, I conveniently forget I ever submitted. Selective denial can be a beautiful thing.

Sorry, meant to paste my previous post on Gustavo's CS AAA thread.

Great news, Steve. I'm sure you'll make a big hit. Do yourself a favor and get a GPS unit. It may lie to you occasionally (Right, Peter?) but it sure took a ton of stress out of my recent trip to the concrete jungle.

Another notch on Jean's pencil for "Serena's Thunder" making the semis in the CWA competition.

Does Jean have the Midas touch or what?

Don't tell the story, sell the story.

Since your CROWD speaks as one character they are considered a single character so no need to write (in unison).

Since no actual dialogue is spoken when your character mouths words, it's considered an action. I'd simply make it part of the narrative.

Ditto - send it to Barb.

Colin covered two scripts for me and I liked and used his feedback. Don't knock him until you try him. Matter of fact, I use part of his coverage in both my one pages.

Roy, you're new on these boards so I'll put this politely; You're a dick.

I'd like to apologize for calling you a dick earlier. I owe all the dicks out there a sincere apology.

Sometimes you just have to turn a script into t writing sample, take the hit and accept the fact that the last man with an original idea was Adam. It hurts but that's the nature of the beast.

Look at the bright side, Janet, at least you didn't lose a high concept.

You have an imagination, don't you? Go back to the drawing board and make your script shine in a different direction.

Doesn't help anyone to sit at your computer and feel sorry for yourself. This stuff happens all the time. Either you roll with the punches or you get knocked out.

May I suggest a silk scarf? Oh, wait a minute, Alfred Hitchkock or Sidney Sheldon already did that. Think of something more original.

Sorry, Janet, but the loglines/concepts aren't even close enough to contest. If you ask me, you're just making a big deal about nothing. It may be inspired by actual events but if you hope to be a professional screenwriter, you need to acquire the skills to whip your story into something different enough to adapt to the current market. I've been in your situation and simply wrote around it and everything worked out terrifically.

I just have one big question. If you don't have an imagination, how can you ever hope to be a professional screenwriter?

Barb's review process is already the best deal in town and now it's even sweeter.

Entertainment attorneys will typically charge no more than 5%.

A terrific offer on top of a fantastic deal. Barb bends over backwards to help aspiring and professional writers. Don't miss this opportunity.

Well earned, Jean, congratulations. An excellent screenplay like your other finalist script "Lady Jazz." You're as good or better than any pro I know.

It means it's better than a PASS but not good enough to RECOMMEND.

Ron -

I've taken Hal's Pro Series, Master Class, Sequel and a slew of others. Every single one of them was a valuable learning experience and money well spent. I wouldn't have reached a pro level without them.

Patrick -

Subtext was my original motivation for taking the Pro Series. Barb Doyon recommended it over four years ago and am I ever grateful.

Orlando's right about networking. Pro Series alumni are several hundred strong and bend over backwards to help each other.

This business is all about learning and contacts.

You do, Jean.

Mele Kalikimaka me ka Hau'oli Makahiki Hou

Aloha

Eric

Excellent heads up, John.

Listen to what he's telling you, people. John dynamited the doors last year and if this is the path he took to get there, it'd be ridiculous for anyone not to follow it.

HAPPY NEW YEAR

Sex must sell because it's cost me a bloody fortune and always left me smiling.

Far as paying for it goes, it was the best education money could buy.

Before I met my wife she was a hooker on a sport fishing boat and I was the baiter who managed the poles.

We're from Hawaii, so get your filthy mind out of the gutter.

Tell that to the makers of "Body Heat", "Basic Instinct", "Monster's Ball", "The Cooler" and a slew of others. Graphic sex scenes made these films more memorable and were significant parts of the stories.

"sex is an ugly thing and we're ugly when we're doing it."

Really? Have you tried turning off the lights?

How's the old joke go? I never went to be with an ugly woman, but I did wake up to several.

Sex can be a beautiful thing is you write it well or perform it correctly.

Hello, it's not about the SEX. It's about the STORY! One of my comedies was formally called "I Married A Porn Star." There were no sex scenes because my story didn't need one.

Ditto on everything Jean and Peter said. Barb runs an terrific contest. I was fortunate enough to win a couple years back. Not only did I sign with a WGA agent as a result, it's been a very helpful addition to my resume. I find it to be the least subjective of any contest I've entered. Very professionally run.

MEIN KAMPF was written when Eva Braun was 12.

This thread is nauseating!

From time to time I check these boards to see if anyone needs the advice I'm able to offer. Lately you and your clown friends have dominated the topics and the quality of contributions has dropped like the stock market. I don't know what your screenplays are like but if they're anything like your posts...

There's nothing wrong with humor. The problem is posting erroneous information.

Yvonne,

Does your mommy know you're playing with her computer?

Any writer worth a damn doesn't need props. If you can't describe these dances with clarity on the page, they shouldn't be in your script.

Frankly I'd rather stick needles in my eyes than sit through a performance of country western ballroom dancers. Thank God I never will.

Actually, Janet, I do watch DANCING WITH THE STARS and SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE and would still take the eye needles over sitting through a country ballroom dancing number.

It shouldn't matter whether you're writing about country ballroom dancing, disarming an atomic bomb or pulling off a complicated robbery. If you're not capable of painting a clear picture for the reader with words, you have FAILED as a writer.

On a different thread you declared you were not a screenwriter and don't intend to write more than one script. If you need a visual aid like dancers to get your point across, you were absolutely right.

It's not that I dislike dance musicals, I just don't like bad ones. I know you made up this country ballroom style. That's where the eye needles come in.

My original point was, Janet, if you want to introduce something new to Hollywood, you better damn well be able to explain it clearly and in as few words as possible. Your country ballroom fruit salad sounds like one big clusterfuck. Why don't you call it SCHIZOPHRENIC BALLROOM instead?

Used it many times and received numerous requests. The best thing about this site is producers and reps respond within a day or two max. I've never not had a timely response.

Not sure if they're still offering but they did a great job of helping the writer shape the query.

Managers are typically easier to deal with than agents.

I'm not talking about dance movies or musical dance in general, Janet. Whan I mentioned bad ones, I was referring specifically to what I read of YOUR script on this site.

Perhaps if you spent more time learning how to be a more skilled screenwriter rather than dominating these boards and bulling talented writers like Jean Hunter, you wouldn't constantly complain how no one can see your vision.

You simply made a suggestion? Not too objective, are ya, Janet? You assumed I don't know anything about dance but I do. You assumed I never watch shows like "So You Think You Can Dance" and "Dancing With The Stars" but I do. You accused Jean Hunter of not giving blacks a fair shake in her excellent script "Lady Jazz" without even reading it. I read it and it's not one bit racist. You've argued with me about the benefit a High Concept rather than an unmarketable concept like country ballroom dancing. You accused me of judging your work without reading it but I have.

You deny dominating these boards but after a close look at your massive number of posts since you joined this site just a little over six months ago, there's not debate about that either.

Frankly I could go on and on but that's your specialty.

Best stick to 3rd person and not rock the boat until you're the captain. It's your job as a writer to make it as easy as possible for the producer to say yes.

Congrats to Jean for signing with a respected WGA signatory agent as direct result of her prize winning script "Serena's Thunder."

Congratulations, Irin! Keep up the good work.

Barb's specials are terrific. I write faster just so I can take advantage of as many as possible. I was on the last agent teleconference and it was very informative. The agent looked at pitches and picked her favorites. The price was certainly right too. Purchase a standard review for $75.00 or expedited for $150.00 and Barb signs you up for the teleconference as a bonus.

Jean Hunter is an excellent example of what Barb can do for a writer. Jean would be the first to tell you she owes much of her success to Barb's constructive script reviews and E-course. Check out the Extreme Screenwriting website and see what she might be able to do for you. She's certainly made a world of difference to me.

You don't have even one feature screenplay? It's never too early to listen and learn.

Excellent work, Orlando, congratulations.

You need to be subtle. A hint of things to come without it being an obvious setup.

Ron,

Check out ScriptForSale's Pro Series. Hal Croasmun teaches excellent techniques to develop High Concepts.

The most knowledgeable person I know in the biz says your 'theory' on originality being the most important thing, isn't really true. First thing a producer asks is, "What audience can I sell this to"? Originality is in the way a plot's executed, not just an idea and that requires a specialized skill.

Best deal for the money is Barb Donyon's Extreme Screenwriting, hands down. Over the years she's the only reviewer I've been 100% satisfied with and used regularly. I employ multiple reviewers but Barb's always been my favorite.

I highly recommend her contest as well. I was fortunate enough to win Extreme Screenwriting's first competition and it's helped open numerous doors. This year dozens of production companies will be looking at the winning scripts. Get your entry in now!

Congrats, Irin, the hits keep on coming.

Bravo, Irin, keep up the good work.

Writers like Connie and Jean are an inspiration to us all.

Last chance to see Irin Evers award-winning short ''Sweet Dreams'' at the NewFilmmakers Spring Festival on Sunday, April 5th at 6PM as part of the Short Shorts program at Anthology Film Archives (2nd Ave. at 2nd St. — NYC). There will be a $5 admission. (See the attached release).

This will be the 8th (and probably final) film festival screening for ''Sweet Dreams''. As part of the Short Shorts program — there will be 17 (yes, 17) films shown in that hour. At 6 minutes, ''Sweet Dreams'' is one of the longest. I'll be in attendance of course.

A college outcast becomes a crime-fighting vigilante with the Guardian Angels.

Perhaps there's something in your story that could make this logline a bit more interesting. The closer it is to High Concept the better.

These are the requirements for High Concept:

The idea must be original, unique and compelling.

Must have mass audience appeal.

Title should grab you, say something about the story, be easy to remember.

Story must be story specific. There must be specific details in the logline that make it different from a generic pitch. If it's a comedy, the LL should reflect that.

Pitch must be one to three sentences max. You want the most info in the fewest words. Like a screenplay itself, less is more.

Way to go, guys! Peter, I'm not a bit surprised. "Beneath The Black Ice" is a winner from page one.

Do you think if your script reviewer was black you'd get a RECOMMEND? Who are you kidding?

Girl, you are delusional. Barb would never allow race to be a factor in her review process. For you to insinuate that is inexcusable! Disgraceful!

Let's face it, Evie, you received a PASS because your script quality is lacking, not because you're black, brown or whatever.

Far as Barb's agent teleconference goes, it's an opportunity for a learning experience.

Too bad Bill Crosby's workshop doesn't seem to be worth your time. If you were a serious writer, it would.

Evie, if it walks and quacks like a duck...

If you have an ethnic specific character and don't indicate it clearly, it's your fault, not the reviewer's. Many of my characters are ethnic and I make damn sure it's indicated.

If you truly want to be a successful screenwriter, use your latest review as a tool and strive for a RECOMMEND. I received PASSES from Barb on several of my scripts. I didn't go online and whine and cry that I needed a Polish or Hawaiian reviewer to get a fair shake. I sat down and rewrote, rewrote and rewrote. I now have six screenplays and RECOMMENDS across the board. It was a lot of hard work but the painful reviews made it possible. Without Barb Doyon's feedback I'd never be where I am now.

Jean's right that no one bends over backwards more for screenwriters than Barb Doyon. I'm certainly not the only one who owes his/her current or future career to her.

FYI, use multiple reviewers for maximum objectivity.

It's your story, not those other writers. Listen to their input but before you make changes accordingly, keep in mind that it's supposed to be your vision. At least it is until you sell it. Then it's the producer or director's vision.

If you take an online class like ScriptForSale's Pro Series, you'll learn how to deal with group critiques and how to filter through what works for you and your story without sacrificing your vision.

If your feedback was from quality experts like Barb or gifted writes like Jean Hunter or Peter Fraser that'd be one thing but if it was from neophytes, that's a whole different matter.

Look into joining a writer's group so you can exchange work, learn and grow. See if there's one in your area. I live on a lava rock in the middle of Pacific ocean and we have one.

Jean is spot on about putting your script away for a while. Don't even think about it for a few days. When you're ready, read your latest review/reviews, pull the script out and prepare to rewrite and review as many times as it takes to get a RECOMMEND from at least one credible reviewer like Barb Doyon. If you feel you need a black reviewer for a different perspective, more power to you but if that person knows what he/she is talking about, the ethnic perspective you seek will produce the same result.

A big THANKS to Barb Doyon for putting together another interesting and informative teleconference which resulted in script requests by a respected WGA agent for several of us.

If there's ever another one, people, do whatever you can to be part of it.

The ugly chip on your shoulder will get you absolutely nowhere. Newsflash, girlfriend, nobody owes you anything and if you go through life feeling they do, you'll suffer for it.

My wife is native American and white and I'm sure she'd appreciate your dig.

Several of my best friends are black, in spite of the fact that I was beaten and tortured by blacks on more than one occasion in Africa. There's barely a night goes by that I don't have nightmares of my tormentors screaming racist insults while they shoved the hottest chili peppers on earth under my eyelids and various other sensitive places.

Get over it, Evie. You're not making any friends here. There are plenty of sites for haters. This site's supposed to be for screenwriters who are willing to help each other. Not your bullshit. I'm sick of it.

The agent teleconference was held early April. The current special is listed on Extreme's home page: Buy One, Get One Free Expedited Review. Specials change monthly. Explore the rest of the site by clicking on the button located on the home page for contest, reviews, etc. Send any questions to Barb Doyon's email address bscreen2000@yahoo.com

Now you put together an irresistible pitch package. That's a strong concise logline, compelling synopsis and a hit list of all production companies/agencies looking for your type material. Once you have that, mail, fax and phone pitch your butt off. Above all, BE PROFESSIONAL.

I don't recommend writing an outline for someone else unless it's on assignment. Best to keep each scene to one or two sentences in order to keep your creative options open. I like to indicate my plot points for a solid structure.

Most important is to start with a solid HIGH CONCEPT and stick with that concept throughout your outline. The "essence" of your concept must be in each scene.

I don't advise posting your High Concept scripts on it, low budget only.

Colin's right. Virtual Pitchfest is terrific. I've had numerous script requests by companies with studio deals. David occasionally offers discount packages as well. My latest purchase was eleven pitches for $90.00.

Hi Mahree,

I tried to find the Jim's info but had no luck either. Have you tried our ProSeries group yet? Matt Dixon is in Santa Fe and always knows everything that's going on in New Mexico. If you can't find his contact info, I'll search through my Sherwood College info.

Aloha,

Eric

Congrats, Irin! Couldn't happen to a nicer guy.

I took one two years ago. It was okay but didn't hold a candle to Barb Doyon's E course or Hal Croasmun's ScriptForSale Pro Series. Available communication with the instructor was minimal and the material covered was rather generic.

Not yet but I will. Jean Hunter did and raved about it. I reviewed Jean's latest script and noticed the considerable difference Barb's course has made. I always keep Barb's E-book next to my computer. It's terrific and covers just about everything. If you don't have it yet, get it. It's only $20.00 and worth many times that. You can find it on her Extreme Screenwriting website.

Good one.

Andrew -

Research Bollywood films similar to yours. Note the producers and production companies, query them.

I originally signed up for Hal Croasmun's Pro Series specifically for the subtext course on the recommendation of Barb Doyon. I liked it so much I took the Master series and the Sequel series. Each series produced a different High Concept script of a quality superior to anything I'd imagined.

Nice site, Chris.

Way to go, mate.

And their hits just keep on comin'!

Keep up the good work. Jean's already a busy working writer and I'm sure Geoff ain't that far behind.

I've had multiple script requests via VP.

What I like about David's site is the ability to view exactly what each company is looking for. However, there have been times I scratched my head and screamed WTF, this is exactly what they want but all I received was the standard pass response like Cat mentioned. I estimate my rate of success is about 15%.

You're welcome to your opinion but are you a working writer? Have you achieved success without professional help? I'd think twice about slamming consultants and teachers like Blake and Jim. I certainly agree that books, DVDs and classes are key but if it wasn't for consultants like the terrific Barb Doyon, my career would have never taken off.

Ditto!

Bravo to members of SAG for accepting their new contract in a landslide vote of 22% for and 78% against a strike! I take back all the bad things I ever said about actors.

Another example of the inexcusable sniper mentality of these boards. There are a handful of idiot posters here who have nothing better to do than sling mud at knowledgeable contributors.

Thanks for the definition, Dan. Why don't you look up hot poker, pop down to your local store, pick one up and shove it where the sun don't shine.

When you advise writers against using the services of experts like Jim Mercurio, Blake Snyder and Barb Doyon there may actually be a neophyte out there naive enough to believe that you know what you're talking about. Unfortunately for them, you're basing your opinion solely on your mere unqualified opinion. Have you used the specific services of these PROS in the past or do you just sling mud on anyone who comes along? These people have spent a considerable amount of time building up their excellent reputations and then someone like you comes along and tries to destroy their credibility.

Jim made you a terrifically generous offer and you thumbed your nose at it. Might want to open your dictionary again and look up the definition of the word FOOL.

I have a very high opinion of both PAGE and the NICHOLL. My scripts have made the semi-finals in both. The Nicholl placement got more script requests and phone calls.

I'm willing for you to take your chances. Have a nice time.

If you review Evie's posts you'll see that she's all about race. She plays the race card regularly and yells racist whenever it serves her purpose.

We're writers, Evie. No one cares what color you are. I live on an island where it doesn't matter and I like it that way.

It's all good.

Ditto on Barb Doyon. Grab her special, it's a great deal and she's tops.

Alan's absolutely right. It's currently tougher than ever to get a WGA signatory agent. You basically need to have a solid deal on the table so the agent can hit the ground running. It's common knowledge in Hollywood that no one's that keen to be a screenwriter's first sale but they all want a shot at being your second one.

And don't forget that Barb regularly has monthly review specials. Check her website and do your writing a big favor. Sure doesn't hurt to be mentioned in her monthly newsletter when you receive RECOMMEND from her service either.

Okay, people, before you grab your torches and pitchforks, allow me to let you in on something I found out with just a bit of simple research.

928 doesn't charge a fee for representation other than when a deal closes for their clients. That's 10% just like everyone else and they always ask for 10% above and beyond the deal to cover their piece. If it is a project from Hollywood Alert they charge a commission of 3% if they represent a project for the member. The 928 roster includes clients such as Daniel Yost who wrote "Drugstore Cowboy" and the Sequel that's in pre-production. He has never been charged a fee other than the standard commission.

928 receives over 3000 queries per year and have 11 established film and television writers as clients. In the last year they have sold 2 television series, 2 features scripts, and were the sole representation for their clients involved with those.

Might be a good idea for everyone to keep in mind that it can take a lifetime to build a reputation and just a few uninformed posts on internet boards like this to flush it all down the toilet.

I looked over JR's site thoroughly and there's a one time fee of $19.95 to join but that's the only upfront charge. I asked him about the $1,000 fee you folks keep talking about and he assured me there is no such charge.

I agree completely with everyone about not paying an upfront fee for someone to rep your projects. I don't believe that's what JR and his company are doing.

Congrats, guys, very impressive.

Unprofessional behavior on these boards? What a shock.

Names have been changed to protect the guilty.

Frankly I don't think you should be allowed to post unless you list your proper name and profile. Never cared much for being the only guy at the party without pants.

Can't speak for others but my Page semi-finalist script didn't yield one single phone call or email script request. A different story with my Nicholl Fellowship semi. Got lots of interest off that one.

Different script and different year.

Who said I was offended? If I didn't have a sense of humor I wouldn't write comedy.

If you don't want to ignite a debate, why start this thread?

They were both good films but I enjoyed SLUM DOG a lot more. Much more emotional for me. I suppose it's a matter of taste. I can't relate to growing younger but I've spent a great deal of time with the third world's poor. Danny Boyle made a fantastic film with real meaning.

I loved "Forrest Gump" but I saw too many pieces of it in Benjamin Button. I felt it was quite a distraction. Eric Roth is absolutely brilliant and one of my favorite screenwriters but I believe he short-changed Ben's character by having these obvious Forrest Gump similarities. I've been taught that each character should be unique to his/her story or it's lazy writing.

Congrats, Irin, way to go!

Janet, you're nothing but a big cry baby. If you feel you can't compete against the likes of Irin, perhaps screenwriting isn't for you. This is a tough competitive business and there's no room for unskilled whiners. Can you spell amateur?

Apology accepted, but don't let it happen again.

I didn't either but I couldn't help myself.

Spot on advice.

NEVER READ A PITCH except on the phone. Sell it, don't tell it. Make sure you're targeting the right person with the right project. You must study the person you're dealing with, like poker. Gage their reactions and be considerate. Never ramble. Don't go in with just one project. If you don't have other specs ready for market, always have at least one concept pitch ready to push. A good Plan A needs a solid Plan B. Don't perspire and remember, they're just normal people looking for something special and if you don't have that, you shouldn't be there.

If my comedy's logline doesn't get at least a chuckle, I'll go back to work on it until it does. For lack of a better description, you're simply a salesperson trying to sell to another salesperson. Is your project high concept? Humor is subjective and concept is king.

You have a lot of those, don't ya, Harvey?

You people keep forgetting that this is a public board. The mud you sling will most likely land back on you. Don't forget that Hollywood is a small town.

Slamming anyone in the biz on a public board is self-destructive.

I'll pass, Harvey. I can live without your respect. If you want me to do you a favor, don't insult my friends.

I usually respect my elders but in your case I'll make an exception. You're pathetic.

How long have you been off your meds, Harvey? You certainly like to twist things your way, don't you?

I suggest you back away regarding my record with humanity and life experiences. It will only embarrass you more and make you look even more PATHETIC. I've sacrificed more for humanity than you can ever imagine. Far as life experiences go, you have no idea.

Harvey it was never about who is the better person. I have no doubt that you have some fine qualities. My original intent was to simply inform you and other writers that what you say on a public forum can come back to bite you.

Your apology is accepted and appreciated. And BTW, I spent over a decade in the worse places on earth as a humanitarian and have the physical and emotional scars to prove it. I'm also a fellow combat veteran and my hats off to you for your service in WWII.

No hard feelings.

Thomas, you and Evie don't need to stir this up. Harvey and I have worked it so let it go.

Unless you people enjoy being cruel, please let this ridiculous thread end here.