Hey, Word! Just wanted to share some REALLY GREAT NEWS with you! Today, on Feb. 5, 2020, I finally completed my screenplay (started in June, 2018). What tremendous amount of work I've put into it! So excited about the outcome! Hopefully, it'll be produced, and it'll be a movie that people will talk about for several years to come, given its relevance to the modern world. Thanks for all the videos you've made across the years. Been really helpful! I'm really appreciative! :)
I'm quite young (high school age, won't specify exactly), and I aspire to be a screenwriter one day. I remember in drama class a while ago, my teacher was talking to us about stage & film directors who literally made actors start performing the "beforetime" of a scene before they went on stage or on set, and how it made such a big difference to their performance. A fantastic actor can give the performance of a lifetime, if they don't start off "warmed up" or properly in character, then it will bring down the entire performance. Btw your channel is the best
This is brilliance. I can apply it to my novel. Thank you! Also, you are pleasant to listen to: animated but not fake, nice flow and pace. More videos, please!
another wonderful drop filled with grear insight that i definitely was in dire need of...now i can make my scene(s) a lot more meaningful and filled with substance and emotion..thank YOU aga in for another 5 Star Job. !!
Hey, WD! Sorry I'm late to the party. Finally got around to watching your video! :) Great insights here! To the best of my ability, I too attempt at becoming the characters before writing the scenes. I remember one experience in particular that will always stick with me. There's a scene where police officers discuss an operation in which they failed to protect the city. And as I wrote that scene, I could really feel the vulnerability of one of those officers who was present at the crime scene -- her frustration for failing to protect her city. This emotion was strong. And it took me by surprise! So while writing this scene, I felt that I learned something about the hard reality of being a police officer. It was a powerful emotion. And yes, I definitely want more of your videos! :) * * * *Today, I posted this at the Film Courage channel. You may find it interesting to think about some of the things I brought up:* I'm sorry that this is off-topic, but I have a request for a video topic. This one feels particularly important to me. There are a number of interviews on plot structure and storytelling principles. Usually, it is assumed that in a story, there is a character who has a goal she will be able to reach by taking a number of steps. *This goal is therefore under the character's control.* If she takes enough steps, and overcomes the obstacles, she will reach her goal at the end. It seems that it is those kinds of stories that plotting principles are meant for. But what about stories in which the main character has a goal she cannot directly control? In my own project, the main character wants to get a mental health course implemented in school. But at the end of the movie, it is politicians who will hold a vote on whether this course is to be legislated or not: it is not something that the main character is in direct control of. All she can do (together with a team of hers), is to convince society that mental health problems are real, that there are factors in society that deepen these problems, and that implementing this course is a good way of preventing/handling mental health issues in childhood, and in turn in those students' adulthood. So while I have been able to show the stakes in my script and create drama (using dramatic principles), the plot itself does not conform to a standard 3-act structure (with all the standard beats/sequences of each act). But is it still a story that Hollywood could be interested in? On a side note, this is also why I'm a bit concerned about sending my script out to consultants: they may simply point out that my story fails to meet certain structural criteria, while I believe that I have executed my initial story concept to the best of my ability.
Guidepost Three is usually a sticking point... What were my characters doing the moments before I bring them on? I'm working on that, but it is *not* an easy thing.
Hi, Great work improving your overall video production quality! One comment I have is that the louder I make this video, the more dry mouth I hear. I understand that this may sound like a negative comment, and I am sorry. I really wanted to crank this video to immerse myself in your lesson. Don't worry, I still paid attention! Thank you for listening to me share my voice. Looking forward to your next vid (:
Happy new year! A bit concerned here. I am very near completion, but not sure what to do once the script is done... The protagonist's arc will extend for a series of three-four movies. So once I'm done, I'm not sure whether to pitch to producers right away (or send the script to screenwriting competitions, which you have recommended) or whether to first outline the potential sequels. I know that producers can only take on one script at a time, but with outlines for next scripts, it'll be easier to make the overarching story in the films cohesive. But I'll probably need some time to write good quality outlines. I have always been very tied to the idea that I must tell the whole story of the protagonist and not just have one film made. Perhaps I should let go of this attachment? At least I can get to tell a similar story if I write a novel series instead of movie sequels.
I've just finished my Netflix,Oscar,Grammy worthy script and I don't know what to do with it. I'm scared they'll turn me down because I'm too young when it should be the opposite they should get me coz I'm too young I look at this at a different perspective And also I've learnt a lot by just watching your videos
Send out your script to multiple agencies. Start your next script immediately. Send that out too and start another script. Handle rejection like a boss. Reread rejected scripts and rework it. Don't be too attached. Improve yourself. Get in the game. You can do it.
So, I am almost finished with act one of my screenplay that I'm making about a video game called fortnite and the feedback I've gotten so far has been positive but would still like some more if anyone is interested I will definitely show you what I have
Please check this if it's all correct from a to z INT. DEAN's HOME-DAY SAMANTHA,30s,stands at the bathroom door. SAMANTHA Dean are you still in there? Do you wanna be late on Your first day of school? DEAN,17,in the bathroom brushing his teeth DEAN (O.S) Mom,just five minutes. SAMANTHA goes downstairs and takes her purse. SAMANTHA Theo aren't you going at work? THEO,35,sitting at the table reading newspaper. THEO I have the day off,remember? SAMANTHA Sorry i forgot,what's the time? THEO It's 8:00 SAMANTHA Dean,get out of the bathroom now! INT.BATHROOM-DAY DEAN combs his hair watching the mirror. DEAN I want to look nice on my first day. INT.CARLA'S HOME-DAY CARLA,17,searches for her geometry box. CARLA MOM,where is my geomatry box? AMANDA,32,CARLA'S mom,in the kitchen making breakfast. AMANDA (O.S) It's next to your pillow. CARLA takes her geometry box and comes downstairs.
Is it ever appropriate to put "The actor may improvise from here." It is only once in the entire script and there has been plenty of buildup in the meantime. The character is one of a pair of dudes who have been needling each other from the first time they appear. This is the first the actor is not adjacent to his antagonist and he is facing a crisis. Then he learns how this guy has screwed him over Royally and any hope he had of managing the situation have turned to dust. It seems appropriate to take the handcuffs off at that point, but maybe it would be seen as lazy writing?
The short answer is I was looking for ways to be generous to the actor. I guess it might be liberating for some actors and frustrating for others. It is obviously not the writers job to make that call. I feel like an imposter here. It means a lot that you are willing to reply to my dumb questions. Thank you.
Thumper You can always write a short description. If I remember correctly, De Niro improvised the 'You talkin' to me' scene in Taxi Driver. The script writer simply wrote, 'Travis talks to himself in the mirror'. Done.
I want to act in horror movies, write horror scripts, or direct #HorrorMovies. As well as designing costumes and creating horror artwork for heavy metal bands or anyone else that needs it. Is there a way to do some #Horror script writing for anyone in Hollywood to start?
Hey, Word! Just wanted to share some REALLY GREAT NEWS with you!
Today, on Feb. 5, 2020, I finally completed my screenplay (started in June, 2018). What tremendous amount of work I've put into it!
So excited about the outcome! Hopefully, it'll be produced, and it'll be a movie that people will talk about for several years to come, given its relevance to the modern world.
Thanks for all the videos you've made across the years. Been really helpful! I'm really appreciative! :)
This is awesome! Thanks for sharing!
I'm quite young (high school age, won't specify exactly), and I aspire to be a screenwriter one day. I remember in drama class a while ago, my teacher was talking to us about stage & film directors who literally made actors start performing the "beforetime" of a scene before they went on stage or on set, and how it made such a big difference to their performance. A fantastic actor can give the performance of a lifetime, if they don't start off "warmed up" or properly in character, then it will bring down the entire performance.
Btw your channel is the best
It's very important for screenwriters to understand the actor's process. Thanks for this video!
This is brilliance. I can apply it to my novel. Thank you! Also, you are pleasant to listen to: animated but not fake, nice flow and pace. More videos, please!
Absolutely the best channel I’ve come across.
Finished your beginner course in 3 days. Thank you.
So cool!! Exciting!
another wonderful drop filled with grear insight that i definitely was in dire need of...now i can make my scene(s) a lot more meaningful and filled with substance and emotion..thank YOU aga in for another 5 Star Job. !!
Relationship, Conflict, The Moment Before. Thanks!
All of your videos are very helpful. I want to be a screenwriter and I look forward to seeing more of your videos.
As usual, your video is changing my writing game for the better!! Thanks!!
A captivating personality presenting pithy, practical advice; Word Dancer scintillates! Thank you, again.
I enjoyed so many things about this video...
Wonderful video as always. Thank you so much, Word dancer. I love you.
good tips in this video. I might take a little bit of advice and put it into my own writing that I am currently working on.
I love it!
It was amazing!!!
I love the way you explain everything. It's fun and easy to understand.
Thanks Ava!
Hey, WD! Sorry I'm late to the party. Finally got around to watching your video! :) Great insights here!
To the best of my ability, I too attempt at becoming the characters before writing the scenes. I remember one experience in particular that will always stick with me.
There's a scene where police officers discuss an operation in which they failed to protect the city. And as I wrote that scene, I could really feel the vulnerability of one of those officers who was present at the crime scene -- her frustration for failing to protect her city.
This emotion was strong. And it took me by surprise! So while writing this scene, I felt that I learned something about the hard reality of being a police officer. It was a powerful emotion.
And yes, I definitely want more of your videos! :)
* * *
*Today, I posted this at the Film Courage channel. You may find it interesting to think about some of the things I brought up:*
I'm sorry that this is off-topic, but I have a request for a video topic. This one feels particularly important to me.
There are a number of interviews on plot structure and storytelling principles. Usually, it is assumed that in a story, there is a character who has a goal she will be able to reach by taking a number of steps. *This goal is therefore under the character's control.* If she takes enough steps, and overcomes the obstacles, she will reach her goal at the end.
It seems that it is those kinds of stories that plotting principles are meant for. But what about stories in which the main character has a goal she cannot directly control?
In my own project, the main character wants to get a mental health course implemented in school. But at the end of the movie, it is politicians who will hold a vote on whether this course is to be legislated or not: it is not something that the main character is in direct control of.
All she can do (together with a team of hers), is to convince society that mental health problems are real, that there are factors in society that deepen these problems, and that implementing this course is a good way of preventing/handling mental health issues in childhood, and in turn in those students' adulthood.
So while I have been able to show the stakes in my script and create drama (using dramatic principles), the plot itself does not conform to a standard 3-act structure (with all the standard beats/sequences of each act). But is it still a story that Hollywood could be interested in?
On a side note, this is also why I'm a bit concerned about sending my script out to consultants: they may simply point out that my story fails to meet certain structural criteria, while I believe that I have executed my initial story concept to the best of my ability.
Guidepost Three is usually a sticking point... What were my characters doing the moments before I bring them on? I'm working on that, but it is *not* an easy thing.
I love these videos !
I'm laughing my ass off at the food-poison-farting breakup scene!
lol:)
Thank you, that was good!
My blank pages taunt me.
Even when I fill one with text, there's always another blank one waiting immediately after.
Dontcha just hate that!
Like it!!! Please make more 😊👍🏾
For you I will!
This is really good. Thank you
Thanks!!!
Hi, Great work improving your overall video production quality! One comment I have is that the louder I make this video, the more dry mouth I hear. I understand that this may sound like a negative comment, and I am sorry. I really wanted to crank this video to immerse myself in your lesson. Don't worry, I still paid attention! Thank you for listening to me share my voice. Looking forward to your next vid (:
If you have any tips to fix this let me know.
I am working on a screenplay and was wondering if you had an email or something that I could send a certain part to? It's only one scene.
That was helpful. Thanks!
Happy new year!
A bit concerned here. I am very near completion, but not sure what to do once the script is done... The protagonist's arc will extend for a series of three-four movies. So once I'm done, I'm not sure whether to pitch to producers right away (or send the script to screenwriting competitions, which you have recommended) or whether to first outline the potential sequels.
I know that producers can only take on one script at a time, but with outlines for next scripts, it'll be easier to make the overarching story in the films cohesive. But I'll probably need some time to write good quality outlines.
I have always been very tied to the idea that I must tell the whole story of the protagonist and not just have one film made. Perhaps I should let go of this attachment?
At least I can get to tell a similar story if I write a novel series instead of movie sequels.
I love the video. Thanks.
Thanks, Trevor!
I know someone who uses rose aroma papers. Her blank pages smell better than mine.
Nice!
lol
I like these videos, make more
Very useful stuff, 👏
Liked this video. Thanks
Thanks, Fariborz!
I LIKE IT! PLEASE MAKE MORE VIDEOS! :D
THANK YOU.
Can u make a video how to write a comedy script?
lovely adwise 👌
I am a bit confused.... I searched your entire website, and youtube channel, and could not find any mention of your name. Is this intentional?
Only because I think it’s fun to have an alter ego. Others have found me.
I've just finished my Netflix,Oscar,Grammy worthy script and I don't know what to do with it. I'm scared they'll turn me down because I'm too young when it should be the opposite they should get me coz I'm too young I look at this at a different perspective
And also I've learnt a lot by just watching your videos
Send out your script to multiple agencies. Start your next script immediately. Send that out too and start another script. Handle rejection like a boss. Reread rejected scripts and rework it. Don't be too attached. Improve yourself. Get in the game. You can do it.
@@maskednil thank for this you don't know how much your encouraging words mean.
So, I am almost finished with act one of my screenplay that I'm making about a video game called fortnite and the feedback I've gotten so far has been positive but would still like some more if anyone is interested I will definitely show you what I have
Please check this if it's all correct from a to z
INT. DEAN's HOME-DAY
SAMANTHA,30s,stands at the bathroom door.
SAMANTHA
Dean are you still in there?
Do you wanna be late on
Your first day of school?
DEAN,17,in the bathroom brushing his teeth
DEAN (O.S)
Mom,just five minutes.
SAMANTHA goes downstairs and takes her purse.
SAMANTHA
Theo aren't you going at work?
THEO,35,sitting at the table reading newspaper.
THEO
I have the day off,remember?
SAMANTHA
Sorry i forgot,what's the time?
THEO
It's 8:00
SAMANTHA
Dean,get out of the bathroom now!
INT.BATHROOM-DAY
DEAN combs his hair watching the mirror.
DEAN
I want to look nice on my first day.
INT.CARLA'S HOME-DAY
CARLA,17,searches for her geometry box.
CARLA
MOM,where is my geomatry box?
AMANDA,32,CARLA'S mom,in the kitchen making breakfast.
AMANDA (O.S)
It's next to your pillow.
CARLA takes her geometry box and comes downstairs.
This was helpful. (On another note...farts are sexy)
😳 That 2nd dress is not for saving a marriage imo.
It's all relative, innit?
I'm limited by what I can find in stock photography:)
Blondes have more fun " :-)
Boooo.....
@@TheMaternityMogul hahahahaha :-)
Is it ever appropriate to put "The actor may improvise from here." It is only once in the entire script and there has been plenty of buildup in the meantime. The character is one of a pair of dudes who have been needling each other from the first time they appear. This is the first the actor is not adjacent to his antagonist and he is facing a crisis. Then he learns how this guy has screwed him over Royally and any hope he had of managing the situation have turned to dust.
It seems appropriate to take the handcuffs off at that point, but maybe it would be seen as lazy writing?
Yes, it could be seen as lazy writing. And it will take the reader out of the story. Why don’t you want to script the scene completely?
The short answer is I was looking for ways to be generous to the actor. I guess it might be liberating for some actors and frustrating for others. It is obviously not the writers job to make that call.
I feel like an imposter here. It means a lot that you are willing to reply to my dumb questions. Thank you.
The can always deviate from the script.
Thumper You can always write a short description. If I remember correctly, De Niro improvised the 'You talkin' to me' scene in Taxi Driver. The script writer simply wrote, 'Travis talks to himself in the mirror'. Done.
Wardrobe and props have zero to do with performance. These are crutches for weak actors.
I want to act in horror movies, write horror scripts, or direct #HorrorMovies. As well as designing costumes and creating horror artwork for heavy metal bands or anyone else that needs it. Is there a way to do some #Horror script writing for anyone in Hollywood to start?