Fictional Skies

“ Most aspiring screenwriters simply don’t spend enough time choosing their concept. It’s by far the most common mistake I see in spec scripts. The writer has lost the race right from the gate. Months — sometimes years — are lost trying to elevate a film idea that by its nature probably had no hope of ever becoming a movie .”  - Terry Rossio [Shrek, Pirates of the Caribbean, The Mask of Zorro]

The Script Lab has a helpful piece on the first ten pages of a screenplay for those wanting to hit those five crucial elements. Andrew Stanton offers an insightful talk for Ted on what he knows about storytelling  for those interested in story and the man himself. Gideon's Screenwriting Tips  has a useful piece on the common mistakes of novice screenwriters for newcomers looking to develop. Michael Ferris at Script Mag  passionately outlines his four secrets to screenwriting success for those wanting to break through the noise and maximise opportunities. Go Into The Story has an excellent piece and list on clichéd dialogue for those wanting to avoid it and know when it's necessary. Screenwriter's Digest

So you choose to stay in for the weekend instead of being social. Those who go out or invite you out don't understand why you chose to stay in, or when you do venture out, may avoid alcohol. It's difficult for some non-writers to understand (and respect) what goes into living a creative life and ambition. They think taking a random day or weekend off is no big deal, drinking a beer or two; doing this or that. But if we're serious about writing and our commitment - and enjoy it - then these are big deals to us. The Long Road  A writing ambition is a long road and requires a daily effort. There are times to relax and have fun, but productivity and momentum are the main stay. If the wrong fuel is going into the train then it's not going to work properly, or at all. Things must always be moving. If they're not - then we fall behind. To achieve that ideal, sacrifices have to be made. We can try to explain and help others to understand our actions and passion ...

John The Animator Guy has an interesting and helpful piece on visual storytelling  for newcomers. Lucy V at Write Here, Write Now  offers great advice  on how to put together a Writer's CV for those looking to do so. Scott at Go Into The Story has an excellent ten-part series on his scriptwriting process for the curious. Michelle Goode of So Fluid: Confessions of a Screenwriter  has some great info and resources on social networking and peer feedback for writers wanting to network and share work. Brian at Screenplay Readers  shares some golden advice on how to get a 'Recommend' on your script coverage for those wanting to improve their game.

TheScriptJoint   Ellexia   Most stories are a combination of 2-3 genres. Amplify the primary genre & put other elements of genre in where they fit.  TheScriptLab   The Script Lab  "Realistic dialogue only gives a flavor of reality."  tsl.cm/d5sunY   robthor   Robert Thorogood   Never be cynical - always write with passion and love.  UnkScreenwriter   Unknown Screenwriter   The longer the dialogue, the more EMOTION. The shorter the dialogue, the more DRAMA.  Screenwriter911   Will Chandler   Keep in mind that your Antagonist THINKS he's the Protagonist.  TheScriptLab   The Script Lab   5 Key Screenwriting Skill Sets  tsl.cm/h004lM   MatcoopLeeds   Matthew Cooper   Every script and every scene and every character should have an active question. What is the active  question of your script?  XanderBennett   Xander Bennett   Screenwriting Ti...