Fictional Skies

What is the best way forward for a new writer, aspiring or otherwise: Go online? Stay offline? Do both? This is something that has interested me for quite some time and has seen my allegiance wander back and forth. Let's start by defining new writer : as someone with none to a few years experience writing. Is it ever too early for a new writer to go online? Should they make the rush and reap the benefits of networking and sharing their early work, passion and opinions a.s.a.p.? Alternatively...  Is it ever too late to go online as a new writer? Should they stay offline and focus on writing for enjoyment, to find their voice and develop writing skill and a portfolio first? While the Internet has benefits and opportunities for new writers, I feel it makes sense to take time to hone your craft and writing skill before developing into a online presence as a writer. The Internet can be a tough place for new writers as they are bombarded with a mass of infor...

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 ...

Saturday May 5th saw my story contribution to 3 Hundred and 65 . Some people may compose and send their story tweet from work, while juggling the kids, or put a few casual hours in beforehand. Or like me - the days leading up to it are ripe with inspiration, creativity and practice tweets - some major indulgence. Although, the final story tweet and overall story development almost went a different way. As I thought about bringing in a new storyline at the time and ambitiously, to push for a multi-narrative story. In fact, it almost went all wrong, and was heading for this: Hunched over, his fingers clasped to a jar: frozen tears imprisoned by glass. The Orphan glared at the Stranger by the mast.  Thankfully, I voiced my intentions on the 3 Hundred and 65 Widows unofficial Facebook fan page , and soon realised new characters and narratives wasn't what the story needed. Therefore, my Orphan character, Stranger by the mast, and the frozen tears imprisoned by glass - bit th...

Three months ago I began work on my second project for the year: an urban horror series.  The first:  Project Spacebound began over four months ago and is being written at the same time.  From Half-Idea to Series  The big bang moment for this came when a half-idea met its title-to-be and fused together to become something with potential. The combination of those two intriguing elements told me that this was something to pursue. Its title was a word I thought I had initially made up, as it just appeared in my head and got me hooked. It conjured up emotion, atmosphere, genre and images. Later on, I discovered it was a real word, however, its slang meaning better suited the show and helped define a major element. The 'half-idea' was a notion and genre twist on a recent news story at the time. A 'what if...' scenario resulted and one that would lead into a high-concept horror sub-genre story. From then, I knew I had to construct a new and compelling ...

It's never wise to write a script solely for a competition. The only thing on your mind being: The Reward & Winning Write a script because you enjoy the process; are interested in the exploration of story, character and form; saying something about the human condition; forming an emotional and entertaining journey; and developing as a writer and person. Not because you want to pimp it out to a competition and get something back. Script competitions are great for a previously completed script that may be ready or just needs a rewrite/polish. They are ideal for an experienced writer who has a body of spec work and is looking for some recognition and a way forward. They are also good for beginner writers entering once or twice to test the waters, or for fun as a screenwriting hobby. If you get a kick out of the process and thrill of writing a script for a competition: enjoy the challenge and creating to a deadline. Keep on doing what you're doing. But keep i...

The story of Facebook and its rise and rise and rise fascinates. Most success stories and personal achievements inspire, but this one is different. That has only deepened over the last week as I received The Social Network on rental and have watched it four times. That includes 2 x film watch, 1 x with David Fincher commentary and 1 x with Aaron Sorkin & cast commentary. Even after four watches, I am more drawn to and compelled by the film than ever - as well as the origin of Facebook's success story, filmmaking, the industry, business and people in general. Ultimately it's about people: their personalities and desires; their talents and flaws; their failures and achievements. Everyone is the same under the surface but different and fascinating in their construct and actions. As writers, the more we experience, observe and learn about people the more informed, realistic and powerful our writing becomes. Facebook's Success  Ultimately what I feel the succe...