OT: Half finished script for anyone interested

p@mast3rs wrote on 12/23/2004, 7:44 PM
Keep in mind, dialogue isnt my strong point and that this is a first revision that isnt even remotely done. Characters still have to be a little bit more evolved but you can start to see the direction I am going. Its the end that will shock you which isnt written yet.

If anyone wants to read it and give me their thoughts, I will be more than happy to share with you. drop me an email patrick.masters on gmail.

Also, let me know the format you wish to read it in.( i.e. word, pdf, fianl draft 6, etc...)

Comments

Coursedesign wrote on 12/23/2004, 10:03 PM
Have you read the book "How NOT To Write A Screenplay"?

It is truly truly outstanding, and I consider it to be the #1 most important book for writing good screen plays. I got it from a specialty store, but it's probably available on Amazon.
p@mast3rs wrote on 12/24/2004, 8:02 AM
No I havent had a chance to pick that book up but definitely put it at the top of list.

I got an email this morning from another forum member from a script writing site that had nothing but high praise for what I have accomplished thus far. Surely I dont think it is earth shattering but Im my own worst critic (arent we all.)

Through several discussions this morning, I was asked just what I had hoped to accomplish with this script. My reply, "to make enough cash on it so I can buy a HDV camera."

I thought to myself, am I willing to part ways with a script and production just to buy a HDV camera? You betcha. If the story gets told and I walk a way with a nice new shiny piece of equipment, Im happy. He was amazed that I would give up so much for so little. I told him my goal is to find someone who recognizes the potential in the script and backs the production of it (overs equipment cost) and Id be more than willing to take the short end of everything. Id trade a measily $5k camera and maybe even 10% of profits while giving them everything from distribtuion rights and 90% of profits just so it can get made.

So if I ever find someone who has an extar $5k thats wants to roll the dice on this script, Ill take it in a heart beat.and sacifice the farm just for the chance to be a part of something big. i dotn want the accolades or even the big pay day. I just want the chance to play in the game coach.
Coursedesign wrote on 12/24/2004, 8:21 AM
Scripts are not bought as often they are optioned for a few $K.
p@mast3rs wrote on 12/24/2004, 8:26 AM
Agreed. But if the writer is willing to direct/produce the script for a simple $5k investment and 10% return in any profits, it seems like win/win situation for not only the writer but also for the investor. Even with a simple enough hype machine, the investor will make back their money and then some. I think the general public has proven one thing, they will buy just about anything.
patreb wrote on 12/24/2004, 9:52 AM
2 page synopsis or a step sheet would be good.
p@mast3rs wrote on 12/24/2004, 9:58 AM
I have that as well but I dont believe the content should be posted here as its not the proper place and I dont want to offend anyone with its content/language which are detrimental to the story in itself.
mark2929 wrote on 12/24/2004, 10:01 AM
Hi Patrick

I wouldnt mind having a Read if thats "OK" Of your Script Please send it to smnor@yahoo.co.uk

Happy Xmas !
p@mast3rs wrote on 12/24/2004, 10:13 AM
Mark, I tried sending and it was returned undeliverable. is the email address correct?
mark2929 wrote on 12/24/2004, 10:32 AM
Patrick

yes it is...(Correct) I have no idea why it was returned ! Maybe try later Perhaps... Also Oopps I should have said what format Preferably( .fdr) or else( Word..)

Thanks Patrick.. Sorry for the Problems..
mark2929 wrote on 12/24/2004, 10:36 AM
Patrick

I dont know whats wrong with ME these days perhaps I Am just tired The address is smnor2000@yahoo.co.uk...:)
JonnyMac wrote on 12/24/2004, 11:05 AM
If it's not an action movie ... the dialog had better be good. I'm not saying you have to have a lot of dialog (in fact, less is better), but it had better be good (meaningful). And the story has to have enough to let your actors develop "what isn't said."

I'm lucky living in Dallas ... once a month the DSA (Dallas Screenwriters Association) has a meeting where they can get up to 10 pages of script read by professional actors. While I usually sit on the actors' side of the table, this month I took the opening 10 pages of my latest script.

It was an early Christmas for me; lots of kind comments. The best, however, came from a literary agent who very simply said, "Excellent dialog. Very natural."

If you've got a great story, don't weaken it with inadequate (quality) dialog. And find some actor friends who can read your script aloud to you -- that will help you tremendously.
JonnyMac wrote on 12/24/2004, 11:07 AM
Another note: If your story is very good, be careful about getting it out so easily before you've registered it with the Writers Guild. Ever notice how often similar movies are released by "Hollywood." Loose lips sink ships....
p@mast3rs wrote on 12/24/2004, 11:10 AM
Edit: Through some good advice, I was advised to remove my synopsis for the aforementioned reasons above. Apparently someone thinks this has potential with the right cast and promotion and doesnt want to see it get yanked from me.

I will still share through email but leaving it on a public forum is not in my best intrest.
winrockpost wrote on 12/24/2004, 11:14 AM
Ever notice how often similar movies are released by "Hollywood." Loose lips sink ships....




Amen on that one,, a lot of ideas are stolen in movies & tv
Ever pitch a show, you come very close to giving up the rights just by pitching it, then if you are lucky enough to do the show, you do give up the rights, the next year its up for bids to other production companies.
unless you are mark burnett or have a great position of negotiation.

OK gotta wrap presents now ,
Happy holidays to all.
p@mast3rs wrote on 12/24/2004, 11:16 AM
So I wrote a typical outline. Do you think this would hold your interest? How would you leave the theatre? What mood? Does it have an impact on you? Does it make you think what would you do if you were in that situation?
p@mast3rs wrote on 12/24/2004, 11:26 AM
I had an awesome idea for a TV show but it could only be shown around Christmas time.

It is copyrighted but I have no avenues available to get it into TV. I am more than willing to let someone who has the avenue available to them have it for a small option fee.

Email me for details.

Guarranteed hit for advertisers, companies, broadcatsers, and viewers.

Actually, if there is someone in the Cincinnati area, I will be more than happy to co-produce a pilot for this reality show.. I promise you it will be a big hit.
p@mast3rs wrote on 12/24/2004, 12:09 PM
Edit: Through some good advice, I was advised to remove my synopsis for the aforementioned reasons above. Apparently someone thinks this has potential with the right cast and promotion and doesnt want to see it get yanked from me.

I will still share through email but leaving it on a public forum is not in my best intrest.
mark2929 wrote on 12/24/2004, 12:24 PM
Thanks Patrick ...Thats amazing.. VERY Professional I was reading aloud and acting out each Part ...Very Natural writing ...I just Bought an Arri Camera perhaps I could enact a scene for you.. I have been looking for something to make ..If You didnt mind ...And if I CAN Adapt a scene ..Perhaps you may have an idea what you might like me to have an attempt at... It would just be for fun If I did ..and posted on Chienworks..

I understand if not !

:)
p@mast3rs wrote on 12/24/2004, 12:30 PM
mark, shoot me an email. I am sure we can work something out and Id love to exchange ideas with you.

patrick.masters over at gmail
goshep wrote on 12/24/2004, 12:51 PM
My curiosity is now killing me and I could use some courage by proxy. Everytime I start to write, I second guess myself. The more I see other people "sticking their necks out" the more courage it gives me. The frustrating thing is (as was mentioned earlier) I've had several ideas that I've never acted on and a few of them popped up on the big screen years later. They weren't blockbusters but they coulda been mine if I had taken the chance.
goshep@yahoo if you're still sharing it.

p@mast3rs wrote on 12/24/2004, 12:55 PM
Sent Goshep. Let me have all the criticism that you can throw at me. :)
goshep wrote on 12/24/2004, 1:14 PM
Warming up my throwing arm now ;)
p@mast3rs wrote on 12/24/2004, 1:17 PM
Keep in mind, what i sent was the outline in a rough draft stage. If you want to see the roguh draft of the first half of the script, let me know and I can send that as well.
JonnyMac wrote on 12/24/2004, 3:38 PM
Sharing your hard work before it's actually finished and registered with the Writer's Guild is NOT in your interest. Remember that your first draft, is just that. The saying is that scripts are not written, they're rewritten.

Use your enthusiasm for a great story to create a great script. Keep it to yourself until you're done. Nothing is more heartbreaking that having someone else execute our good idea....

And -- if I may offer -- get and read "500 Ways to Beat the Hollywood Script Reader" by Jennifer Lerch. That book has helped me more than any other book on screenwriting that I have.