BACK TO REALITY

Vacation is over.

It was terrific but went by in a blink. Vacations are a lot like summer -- we wait and anticipate them, but midway through we know they don't last long and get a little sad. Nothing like long vacations and summers. We can never get enough of either.

It was a great week spent in upstate New York in Ulster and Sullivan counties. We visited Woodstock and Bethel, NY (where the actual concert took place) for the 40th Anniversary of the music festival. It's a beautiful farm where the concert was held originally and now a new Woodstock museum is on the property. It's worth seeing if you want to experience a bit of what the Sixties and Woodstock was all about and its impact on American culture.

The personal stories are fascinating -- talk about good material for a movie. We think of the iconic images of the hippies at Woodstock... but there was so much more going on with local resistance and politics, fear for the safety of the locals and the concert goers, the lack of food, water and medicine, women giving birth, Interstate 87 being shut down from traffic jams, and mass crowds with no means of communicating like today with cell phones and e-mails. Imagine having Twitter at Woodstock. People there in the Sixties communicated by leaving notes on cars, under windshield wipers, and pinned to backpacks or blankets in hopes of being read.

A crazy, chaotic, free, yet somehow organized event that we'll probably never see again in our life times.

Just before going away, I wrote a first draft of my new play called Extreme Green. It's a short play -- 11 pages. I hope to submit it to the short play festivals around the country this fall. It's a two character play and a drama (with some amusing moments) about the local food industry craze.

Until next time.

JOHN HUGHES

This has been a tough week with losing writer/director John Hughes and screenwriter/teacher Blake Snyder. Both men who died too young and contributed a lot through their individual passion, love and work in the movies.

John Hughes' movies defined a generation and had a distinct appeal to moviegoers of a certain age. He made a huge impact and then just seemed to leave the scene and the business. Maybe he had nothing else to say, or prove, or he just decided to do something else with his life. His movies will live on and I'm sure this week alone many people are renting all those great teen movies that spoke to them not so long ago.

Enjoy your favorite John Hughes movies and take this day to really enjoy your own life -- too laugh, tell someone you love them, or just appreciate what it is you have at this moment.

In that spirit, I'm taking a little vacation for a week. Until I return --

Write and live on.

JEFF GOLDSMITH

I just want to say that if you're a screenwriter or director you seriously need to be listening to the Creative Screenwriting podcasts on iTunes. Jeff Goldsmith is the moderator and he does a great job chatting with some of the top notch people in the business -- starting with their breaking in stories, to sellling their scripts, to their daily process and to their next projects. He's a laid back cool guy, sometimes laser intense with his questions and the podcasts are useful if you're studying the business and craft of moviemaking.

So check Jeff out... he's also on Facebook and Twitter now if that's your thing.

Until next time.

THE OSCARS

It's never too late in my book to plan for the Oscars and next year's 82nd Academy Awards is worth noting.

First, it will take place in March instead of February. The reason? The Winter Olympics will be broadcast in February and would split the audience, so dates were changed, which is great. I liked when the Oscars used to air in March to spread out the award season.

Second, in 2010 the Academy of Arts and Sciences will nominate TEN best pictures instead of the usual five. Are there ten best picture out there? Hmmm... some years it seems like slim pickens and other years an abundance of outstanding work. So far for 2009...? The last time the Oscars had ten movies nominated for Best Picture was in 1943. The winner?

CASABLANCA.

So mark your calendars for March 7, 2010 and why not throw an Oscar party while you're at it. Do you like to watch the Oscars alone or with a bunch of people? I prefer to watch them with very few people only because I'm really into the show, as you can imagine. I saw it once at a gala in Manhattan but it was too noisy, with people talking, mingling, fighting over a seat in the theater, etc... it was also fun to get dressed up and watch it with a rowdy crowd... but it's too distracting to watch with others. In my house, The Oscars is an event night with lots of food and snacks -- with us planted in front of the TV in comfy clothes watching the Barbara Walters' Special, then the campy Red Carpet Show and finally the big ceremony.

Until next time.

BLAKE SNYDER

I just heard that screenwriting author/teacher Blake Snyder passed away suddenly today from cardiac arrest. I took Blake's class in NYC back in 2006. It was truly inspiring. I had taken the class soon after reading his helpful book Save the Cat. His class was fun and focused. To this day, I keep those class notes handy and refer to the information he gave to us on that day.

He truly had a love for writers. He was patient, kind and supportive.

Some screenwriting author/teachers are in it just for the money they can make off of hungry writers. I took a seminar once with one L.A. guru (who shall remain nameless) who limited our questions and berated students in a highly condescending manner (like he was doing us a favor by even talking to us, even thought we were paying him.)

Blake Snyder was never like that -- never doing this for a quick buck -- but rather he was trying to help us stay focused, enthused and in the know. He rooted for us to succeed in a very tough business.

Blake was to return to NYC this month. I saw the posting for his seminar and thought about taking it... now he's gone. A young man in his fifties. This reminds us all not to waste a single day, to keep the dream alive, and to connect with others both on and off the page.

We'll miss you, Blake.

OUTLET FOR MOVIES

How do you like to watch movies? Do you use NetFlix, go to Blockbuster, watch online, prefer to go to the movie mutilplex or wait for the DVD? It's amazing how many choices we have to see movies.

When I was a kid growing up, I had two choices -- watch it in the theater or wait for it to go on TV. It became event TV when a new movie came on ABC, NBC or CBS.

Then came the laser disks and VHS tapes. Then the DVDs and digital revolution. And now it's like movie/media overload but probably the best time to be a screenwriter or movie lover. Everything is at your fingertips.

I also love how easily we can submit our scripts these days compared to the old snail mail way. I must have paid for the retirement benefits of a few postman in my lifetime. I used to mail out so many heavy envelopes with scripts in them and became well-known to the people in my local post offices. Not to mention the copy people before I purchased a laser printer back in the day.

Now, it's either upload or attach it as a PDF and off it goes. Do executives/agents really like reading scripts on their computers? But then it's probably better than having twenty screenplays sitting on your desk, or worse, in your trash can.

Let's give a cheer for the electronic submission! I use it a lot for submitting plays to festivals around the country now. Some theaters won't accept electronic submissions and prefer hard copies. It's fun sometimes to actually print out that play and hold it... makes you realize what you labored over for months.

But, usually it's just... Click and it enters the world.

Until next time.

SLIPPING

I went to see a new play SLIPPING by Daniel Talbott last night. It's in previews at Rattlestick Theatre on Waverly Place and will open later this week. It's got a strong, young cast. The play is about a teen dealing with being gay, his father's death and moving from San Francisco to Iowa with his mother. It's amazing how well a playwright/director can tell/show a story on the confines of a stage... with just lighting, a rearranging of furniture, music and a title card.

This will be short and sweet today. I have to get writing and not on the Internet.

Until next time.

REWRITING, REVISITING

I'm working on a project from scratch and have hit a bit of a lull in energy. I'm right at the beginning of the Third Act and know exactly where I'm headed, but I took a few days to focus on some non-writing work and lost my momentum.

So I have to get back on Monday. I'll have one full week to get cracking before a week's vacation. I'm tempted to bring my laptop along to write, but won't... sometimes it's healthier to unplug and daydream about my characters, dialogue, scenes... so that when I do return I'll be eager to sit down and finish this first draft.

Then comes the rewrites... and polishing... and eventually the marketing.

BUT, as a little distraction today I revisited a screenplay I wrote two years ago. It's a crime thriller. It's a rough draft but is actually better than I thought. It's workable and the characters are solid. So, after I'm done with my summer project, it's back to work on the crime thriller. Cop stories have big appeal and I find them exciting to write because of their fast pace.

Meryl Streep is getting great press about "Julie/Julia" and the buzz on the movie. That woman is great in anything, but lately she's raking in big dough at the box-office with "The Devil Wears Prada","Mamma Mia" and "Doubt". She's just so likable a person (Did you catch her on The Tonight Show with Conan O'Brien?) and she consistently chooses appealing projects to attach herself to. Whomever her agent is should get a raise. Miss Streep, who just turned 60, is a testament to fine work still coming out of Hollywood.

I hope she and Nora Ephron hit this one out of the park next month. Here is a clip from YouTube of the B-roll from "Julie/Julia" (BTW, the fruit stand shots at the end and the roof shots with Manhattan in the background were shot in my neighborhood right here in Astoria last year). http://www.youtube.com/user/L102890#play/favorites/5/e1wJIW0Le3A

Enjoy your weekend!

TAKING A BITE OUT OF APPLE

What screenwriting program do you use?

I use an old Final Draft 6 version that works just fine for what I do. Once I start writing a script, I try not to get too distracted with using all the bells and whistles on my Final Draft program (except for spellcheck, is that a whistle or a bell?).

I think we can get too distracted with some of the gadgets and new things some of these screenwriting software programs offer. I know writers who still bang out their scripts using Word and do just fine. Whatever gets your script done is the most important aspect (which is you, of course, the writer).

Do you have a favorite writing place? A desk? A coffee shop? I sometimes write on my laptop at the kitchen table or at my desk. One of my favorite places to write is at a college library in Union Square. It's a reading room so it's quiet and I usually get a lot of work done there. Writing can be lonesome -- so it's nice to get out and see other people. There are places here in NYC that provide a social, yet private work space for writers.

Do you work better alone or surrounded by others? I like to mix it up.

So, speaking of programs and technology, I'm off today to check out about buying a new Mac. My desktop PC is on its last leg. I have a Mac laptop and I like Apple a lot, so I'm biting the bullet and buying a desktop for video editing and writing. It will be cool to have a new computer (toy) to work on... all the bells and whistles galore... just wish I could find a software program that would write my darn script for me!

Until next time.

Hey Folks,

Just got word about the theatrical release of "Big Fan". This new film opens on August 28th. It's the directorial debut of Robert Siegel, the screenwriter of "The Wrestler". The film was made on a limited budget in only 23 days.

According to insiders, the script for 'Big Fan' generated a lot of buzz in Hollywood, receiving attention from director Darren Aronofsky, who ultimately declined directing 'BigFan' and instead recruited Siegel to write 'The Wrestler'. After the success of 'The Wrestler', Siegel was resolved to make the story he was passionate about into a feature film, working tirelessly to develop and produce 'Big Fan'.

Cool. Always great to see one of us get behind the camera and direct his own work. Way to go, Robert Siegel! This movie looks pretty good. Check out the trailer.

http://www.bigfanmovie.com/

Until next time.

EXPANDING

I hope to begin adding some video to my blog regarding screenwriting/playwriting. I've previously used The NY Screenwriting Life for text, but of course, content comes in all shapes and sizes now with technology at our finger tips. Since I live in NYC, I imagine there will be plenty of events or people who may be of interest to all you writers out there.

Please also leave me some comments and suggestions on what you'd like to see on the blog in the months ahead. Feel free to rant or rave or just say hi. This is a two-way street, not just a one-way. Together we can navigate the writer's journey which is definitely a trip.

Thanks, everyone, and enjoy your summer... in between hitting the keyboard.

BLANK PAGE

I'm averaging around three hours per day to write. That's not a lot when you think about it, but it's becoming more routine, which is great. Sometimes, on a good day, I'll write for four hours, then spend the other time revising or reading about writing to keep motivated. The important thing is to keep at it. If we take too long of a break, we get rusty.

There are some great books out there by the masters about writing and the tricks of the trade. I particularly recommend Stephen King's book "On Writing". It's an excellent read and he gives great insights into style and the basics of getting it done. Also worth checking out (from the library if you don't want to spend money on books) is Norman Mailer's "The Spooky Art". He tells all about his early days of writing and the skills and determination the art takes.

Hope you're enjoying July.
Until next time.

A KING AND AN ANGEL

Today they have Michael Jackson's will in hand and Farrah Fawcett will be laid to rest in Los Angeles. Wow. This all seems so surreal. Yes, I know people die every day, but to see two vibrant talents gone so soon is sad. Farrah fought the good fight. As one reporter in NYC said, she saved her best for last -- showing the world she was brave, courageous and no dumb blonde the way she acted on Letterman that night. She took on cancer and the sleazy National Enquirer. She won one of those battles. (The next time any of you think about paying a dime to read the National Enquirer think about what they did to Farrah (she said the publication got someone at the hospital to reveal her medical records while she battled for her life).

And Michael Jackson -- how I remember "Beat It" and "Billie Jean" in those very early MTV days and watched his videos over and over, not to mention "Thriller". I remember watching the Jackson 5 cartoons in the 70's! Michael was simply magical.

It's sad to see these bigger than life icons wither and pass away too soon. It makes our lives seem all that more vulnerable. Was Michael really 50 already? And Farrah 62?

We'll miss them both.

MOVIE ACTRESSES

I'm so pleased to see that Sandra Bullock's new movie "The Proposal" is doing so well! The movie is a fun, light summer comedy. It's first act is much better than the rest of the movie, but still, it's good for laughs.

I'm also happy as a clam that this summer will bring us movies by Michelle Pfeiffer "Cheri" and Meryl Streep "Julie/Julia". There are not enough well-written movies for any actors, male or female, but at least great actresses like Meryl Streep get to keep working in a time of comic book movies, special effects over kill (Have you seen "The Taking of Pelham 1,2,3? It's dizzying.), and lame story lines.

Speaking of interesting movie roles for women, I rented "Frozen River" the other night and it was very well-written and acted. Melissa Leo was nominated for Best Actress for the Oscars. I believe the script was nominated too. It has some real, heart wrenching, dramatic characters and moments.

When I was growing up, I remember watching strong women actresses like Bette Davis, Joan Crawford, Susan Hayworth, Barbra Streisand, Faye Dunaway, Jane Fonda, Sally Field, Goldie Hawn and others . They made wonderful movies about strong, defiant and remarkable women. Screenwriters wrote powerful roles for them. (Jane Fonda in "Julia", "Klute" and "Coming Home", Meryl Streep in "Silkwood", Sally Field in "Norma Rae", Goldie Hawn in "Private Benjamin". )Where are those type of writers today? Why are some of the most amazing actresses simply out of work or showing up in droves on cable cop shows?

Nia Vardolas of "My Big Fat Greek Wedding" fame said a studio guy told her recently that women don't go to the movies so studios don't make women's movies. She claims this studio suit said the success of "Sex and the City" was a fluke.

Well, no, women do go to the movies, Mr. Studio Bone Head... when they're worth seeing. We may not go every single weekend, but we will pluck down our money for a movie with some intelligence, wit, and originality. "My Life in Ruins" wasn't one of those (Sorry, Nia), so don't go by the success of that movie alone, Mr. Studio Lug Head.

But I digress, I'm thrilled that Sandra Bullock's new movie "The Proposal" is her biggest opening weekend movie ever! Really? Hurrah for over-forty Sandra! All you writers out there -- keep writing your best scripts and keep all those actresses in mind when you do. They need your help! We the moviegoers need your talent! And that studio suit should be fired.

Until next time.

INTERNET OUT

So about a week ago a massive lightning storm hit NYC.  I've never seen a storm so intense, especially since living in the city.  It knocked out my Time Warner Internet service for going on the second week now and I feel like my right arm is missing... I'm writing this from a Starbucks.  Does anyone actually write creatively in Starbucks?  It's so damn noisy between the chairs sliding on the tiled floor... the blender mixing iced drinks... and the music blaring, but hey, it's got great coffee and WiFi service (that you have to pay for, bummer! ).

But, the good news is that I've been writing like a maniac on two projects because of NOT being connected online.  I'm pretty good about a writing schedule, but when the Internet is right at my fingertips it is tempting to take a break and check my emails.  I realize now how much time I spend online (some of it is useful research or communication).   Imagine if the TV cable blew out?  I'd be one prolific gal.

Do you spend a lot of time online when you should be writing your book or script?  Try disconnecting your service (save money) or take a week's break and see what you accomplish. It's painful, I won't lie, but it's amazing how much more you'll accomplish when unplugged.

Gotta go... the guy next to me at Starbucks just slid his wood chair across the floor and it's giving me a headache.   

Until next time.

Summer Reading

I'm reading a book called "TIME to Write" by Kelly L. Stone. I received it as a gift for my birthday (along with one of my favorite books "Bird by Bird" by Anne Lamott). Time to Write is an easy read about following your writing bliss. It's a gentle kick-in-the-pants book for writers on how to block out time to write (no matter your job or responsibilities). Prolific authors tell about their daily process, what gets them to the desk to write, and how to keep that mojo going.

I love reading about writing (whether screenwriting, playwriting or fiction writing). Writing is writing, no matter the platform you choose to do it in -- it's daunting, insane and wonderful to be a writer. This book basically says to keep a schedule (like you do with working out at the gym or at home). If you train your brain to write, every day, it will not be such a big deal to face another blank page the next day.

If you haven't read "Bird by Bird" pick yourself up a copy. It's not only funny, but heartwarming and inspiring. Anne Lamott tells how as a kid her brother had procrastinated on writing a book report about birds. It was due the next day and he was sweating bullets knowing how massive the report would be to tackle. Anne's father told him to just take it "bird by bird". I try to live by that philosophy in all areas of my life -- whenever I feel overwhelmed -- I think of Anne's book and advice to take it step by step, scene by scene, chapter by chapter, script by script... you can apply it to your own life too. It's amazing how much you can get done if you set small goals each and every day.

So stop reading this already and go do what you need to do for today -- bird by bird.

Until next time.

FESTIVAL

David Wiener's clever play "Feeding Time in the Human House" won for the best play at the 15 Minute Play Festival. My play was on the same night as his in the semi-finals. I sent him an e-mail to congratulate him in winning the overall Best Play at the festival.

I'm outlining and working on a new play. It's in it's earliest stages and not rushing it.

It's late spring in New York City and a beautiful blue sky May day. Tomorrow I'm meeting an old friend to walk across the Brooklyn Bridge together. She loves literature and devours books so I always look forward to our chats about great books on the market. Her last recommendation was "In the Woods".

I have to read that this summer. Enjoy your day!

GREAT JOURNEY

Wow. It's over. The play went up on May 6th for one night in the Festival. It was so much fun I cannot begin to tell you -- from the first rehearsal to seeing family and friends take their seats just before show time. The theatre is so exciting -- intimidate and immediate. I got the bug for sure.

My play didn't make it to the Finals. There was another play called "Feeding Time in the Human House" which won for the night (out of 5 plays). It was very clever about baboons in the zoo (mates) discussing human behavior while the male baboon threw poop at the audience. How could I compete with flying poop and the female monkey putting her butt up in the air?? lol. It was a great play and hats off to it.

The actors in my play 'NetFits" were Brian Hoffman and Liz Maurer. They worked so hard and were so well received by the audience. They gave it their all. The director Ken Kaissar was a pleasure to work with and so energetic and creative. I hope to work with this trio again.

Last night I saw HAIR on Broadway. My partner bought the tickets for my birthday celebration. The musical is wonderful! All those great songs like "Age of Aquarius" and "Let the Sunshine In". The ending of the play (WARNING -- SPOILER) is so moving with the dead soldier laying on the American flag with the snow falling from the rafters on him. Not a dry eye in the house!

The actors invite the audience on stage at the end to sing "Let the Sunshine In". We did and it was so cool to be center stage on Broadway singing to a New York audience from the top of our lungs. Amazing birthday moment. Amazing life moment. Amazing New York moment.

Go see more theatre if you can afford to... it's magical.

TOMORROW'S THE DAY

One day from curtain up. Rehearsal with the new actress went terrific! She's got great energy and comic timing. The cast includes two talented New York actors: Liz Maurer and Brian Hoffman. They're Equity members. The show is directed by an amazing young director named Ken Kaissar. He's fun to watch as he works his magic with the actors to experiment and try new ways of performing the play.

We're still tinkering with the final few pages. To get it just right (the pacing) and to come in at under 15 minutes in tech rehearsal tomorow morning. They actually time the rehearsal to make sure we stay under 15 minutes.

Stage jitters. So much fun!

DRAMA IN MY COMEDY

My first play goes up this week on May 6th on Off-Off Broadway. Three days from now. Yikes. On my birthday no less. It will be a great day for a number of reasons -- lots of friends and family are coming. It's an amazing birthday gift (from my mother I believe) to have my work produced and all my loved ones there to experience it with me.

We had some drama in the comedy coming to the stage. Two days ago our lead actress became ill and had to back out of the show. Talk about a panic attack! Who could be as good as she was and know the text in only 4 days? My director was cool as a cucumber. No problem. These things happen all the time -- that's why they have understudies. Actors are amazing people -- they live for that edge of the cliff, high-wire act. Not writers. I think we like some stability... but actors go with the flow and the more pressure the better.

We have our first rehearsal with the new actress tonight. She'll be awesome I have a feeling. I'll keep you all posted.

PS -- Just saw the trailer for the new movie "Julie, Julia" starring Amy Adams and Meryl Streep. It was filmed in my neighborhood (Astoria, NY) last summer. And the movie looks like a great one with two terrific actresses. Meryl Streep just keeps getting better if that's possible. Love that woman! And Amy Adams is incredible (she starred with Meryl Streep in DOUBT).

Love the summer movie season!

DECISIONS AND CHANGES AND THE MEDIA

Okay, so we all know we're in an economic depression of sorts. The news tells us the sky is falling every day. It's the worst time to quit a job, right?

I'm one of those people who hates to be stuck in a routine for too long. I don't have any desire to give my everything to some corporate company until my last dying day (or when they decide to lay me off). I've seen colleagues clean out their lockers after 30 years with a big company and it's heartbreaking. I've made my bread and butter in the TV news business, but that business is changing with each and every day. With social networking and digital access and distribution, media companies are ditching seasoned pros in news and print and hiring babes in the woods to rehash from the "wires" or worse yet, to copy and paste. Most of the facts aren't accurate. Would you let someone right out of film school direct your biggest movie? Or someone right out of flight school to pilot a jumbo jet filled with customers? Well, that's what the media companies are doing -- they're waiting for the pros to quit in disgust, or just not to renew the contracts of talented people in an effort to save money. And they will save money, but at what cost? To them and to you?

Who will speak to power? Who will reveal the next Watergate? The next lead up to an unnecessary war? Polluted water in your neighborhood? Who has the gumption anymore to ask the tough questions to the President? Who will spend their lives in other countries to tell us the hard truth about poverty, war or lack of human rights? Not many and you can't blame them. Does the public even care or are we more concerned about Ashton Kutcher's tweets vs. CNN's? It amazes me how we're such lambs for mass media -- lead us to the next trend and we'll follow, no matter how stupid or useless the latest "breaking news" banner is that flashes on screen.

Keep your eyes and ears open... and do your own fact checking. Now -- more than ever. Let's hope the theater is more authentic... but then again, playwright Neil LaBute says that corporate commercial control is changing what playwrights dare write... it doesn't matter what's in the sausage as long as you can sell it.

Until next time.
Janet Lawler
Astoria, NY

ALWAYS SUPPORT THE WRITERS IN THE WORLD

This is a year of writing for so many new platforms. My head is spinning a bit. I've written scripts since I was thirteen years old. My father brought home a used desk for me and encouraged me to write. It also kept me out of trouble. I would write scripts in my bedroom for hours and hours on end.

In high school, I wrote a couple of plays. My English teachers -- Ms. Gamache and Mr. Reinhardt -- were kind enough to let me cast them with students in the class and read the work aloud. It was a blast. I'm sure the plays were dreadful and filled with teen angst, but the teachers still encouraged me to write.

In college, I studied screenwriting and play writing and did well in both. I loved those classes. It was my passion and not considered a hardship to knock out a script assignment. Now, writing papers for my Psych 101 and Statistics courses were another story.

And now, I'm writing for TV news, the web, and the stage. They all require a different approach and style. All require connecting with your target audience and capturing their attention from the start -- a lot like screenwriting. I'm learning no matter whether you're writing a 20 second Voiceover for the News, or a web story, or a 10 Minute Play... people want information and conflict. They don't want to be bored.

So I'm learning to write more with less. Shorter sentences. More active verbs. More visual images.

Writing is writing. What amazes me now, is that we can still learn new techniques and new styles to move people. To write about our universal truths. That has never changed as my motivation for sitting down at my desk -- not the same desk my father gave me -- but just the same, he would be happy to know he started a life long tradition for his daughter.

Until next time.

JANE FONDA

I went to see Jane Fonda on Broadway the night of St. Patrick's Day. It was a packed house and she was fantastic. She's 71, tall and fit and still has that young voice -- when she projected on stage (no microphones used) if you closed your eyes you heard that famous movie voice. Or the voice of the exercise guru of the 80's (yes, I had the album with her in tights!), or the radical with the shag haircut in the 60s (I remember the night she won her first Oscar for "Klute" and how controversial it was in America).

Anyway, she's lived many lives -- made some contributions -- made some blunders -- but she's a darn good actress. Must be in the Fonda DNA. The cast of "33 Variations" is one to see.

In the audience was another childhood fave of mine -- Susan St. James. Now for you young'ins who don't know who that is -- she was the star of "McMillain & Wife" on NBC in the 70's and "Katie & Allie" on CBS in the '80s. She also starred in one of my favorite movies as a kid called "Where Angels Go Trouble Follows". It's a story about two troublesome teens at a Catholic boarding school who go on a cross country trip with a bus load of nuns. It's a riot and corny, but Susan St. James is a hoot and she matured into a fun actress.

Her youngest son was killed a few years ago in a plane accident around Thanksgiving... she had retired to raise her kids. I wish she'd come back to TV.

New York City is that kind of place where you can stroll around and see celebrities. I've seen Harrison Ford, Joan Allen, Tim Robbins, Luke Perry, Tobi McGuire, Glenn Close, Lauren Bacall, and lots of others. I'm always thrilled, but have to act, you know, NY cool.

Until next time.

PLAY IS ONLY TWO MONTHS AWAY

Last night we had our first playwrights meeting at a small black box theater in the heart of Times Square on W. 46th Street. It's a historic building. The theater is on the third floor of an old Catholic Church. All wooden building. The people who run the 15th Annual 15 Minute Play Festival are delightful theater folks... happy, smiling, passionate and eager to help new artists. No wonder people get bitten by the "theater bug". It's a welcoming community.

We went over details about staging, sound cues, lighting, directing, and ticket sales. In this popular festival, tickets go fast since the house only sits about 90 people. As fate would have it, my play was chosen to go up on May 6th, my birthday -- so I'll have some family and friends coming -- and it's great because right next door to the theater is Rosie O'Grady's. It's a great Irish Pub... so my Irish family will be happy after the show ends and they get to raise a glass (or two) close by.

I'm already thinking of my next play. I have a germ of an idea. What's great about these short plays is that they're only 10-15 pages long... but can tell a complete story in a short span of time. And to see what I wrote on the page come to life before my eyes on the stage is going to be a blast of a lifetime!

PS -- if you're a Jane Fonda fan (like I am -- I know, I know, she was a radical in the 60's and all that Hanoi Jane stuff) but I've always loved her as an actress. She's back on Broadway now after 46 years. I'm going to see her show on St. Patrick's Day. If you like reading great blogs, go to JaneFonda.com and read her back-stage posts. They're honest, funny, and all about show biz. She's also on Twitter. And now she's joining Facebook. Jane Fonda is 71 years old. Wow.

Guess it's never too late to try new things and take new risks.

Peace.

COINCIDENCE?

Do you know how sometimes in life you look for signs? A point in the right direction? Something ,to say, -- keep on this path or go this way?

Well, I felt yesterday like I received that sign. In my last post, I mentioned that my short play is going to be produced for Off-Off Broadway (my very first) and it's a new venture for this writer. I've always focused just on feature spec scripts. Not even TV... features. Aiming for the big dream. I've had scripts optioned, but it's been a grind.

I decided last summer to write two plays. Less than six months later, one is being produced in New York. It's such a relief after years of struggling as a screenwriter. Now, getting back to the sign... I found yesterday my play is scheduled to go on stage May 6th -- which happens to be my birthday.

How cool is that? Isn't that a great birthday gift from the gods? From my mother in heaven? From the writing angels? Somebody?

Is it just a coincidence or a sign? Now, I'm not sure I'll become a full-time playwright, but it's nice to see something I've worked on get accepted and produced without a lot of "drama". It's nice to know nobody will change the words of the play, but me, if I'm so inclined. It's wonderful to see things progress. And New York is one exciting town to do it in.

I found my director. He's onboard. We start rehearsals with the actors next month. There is a playwrights meeting (some 35 of us) next Sunday. I'll keep you posted.

Until next time. Keep looking for signs.

WRITER AND DIRECTOR

As of my last post, I mentioned that my short play is going to be produced Off-Off Broadway. It's called "NetFits" about a couple who's love is tested when they open a joint Netflix account. Can you live with someone if they hate the movies you like?

The play will be produced on stage in May here in the city. I met with the director yesterday to discuss the production, casting and details for the rehearsals in April. It was great fun. I've always loved theater and playwriting, but never imagined myself as a playwright. My passion was, and is, screenwriting -- but I see why writing for the stage is so alluring. It's a great way to get your work produced and "hear" your dialogue. Your work can be seen by people who appreciate the written word and the writer behind it. And to experience all that with an audience must be amazing... I'll let you know how it feels for me in May.

Getting ready for the Oscars? I'm a little behind this year in movie-watching for the Academy Awards, but I hope to catch up by the weekend. I'm rooting for Kate Winslet. Other than that -- I'll just sit back and enjoy the show.

Peace.

ON THE BOARDS

Yesterday, the phone rang and it was an artistic director from a NYC theater company. She left a voicemail on my machine that said my short play "NetFits" had been selected to be performed at the American Globe Theater's 15 Minute Play Festival in May.

I submitted the work in the early fall and forgot about it. I sent a few copies of the play out. From screenwriting, I know that all you can do is send it and hope for the best. I don't usually follow up with people because it's like dating -- if it went well -- you'll hear from the person. You don't need to call and bug them.

That was one of the best phone calls I've received in a long time about my writing.
So keep writing, people, and don't sit by the phone... or check your e-mails every five seconds... but sooner or later, that call or e-mail will come.

And I hope you'll come see my play in May. The dream lives on.

Peace.

BARNES & NOBLE

Wow, has it really been before Thanksgiving since I last posted? I apologize to anyone following this blog. I went from freelance to staff as a content producer at a major media company and I'm a bit under water these days. I usually made my bread and butter editing (Avid) but now I'm writing news, editing the news and producing the news. Three jobs in one, plus I'm a media manager on weekends.

When do I have time to work on my scripts? Not much these days -- but now that I'm finally getting my nose out of work tech manuals -- I'm back in the game. I know I'm ready when I start daydreaming about scenes in my scripts. I had one the other day that was crystal clear and seemed to write itself -- and Sandra Bullock was the star of it -- hey, a girl can dream.

I went to Barnes and Noble today to buy birthday gifts -- and of course I was drawn to the screenwriting section. It gets bigger and bigger. I bought the published script version of "The Reader". It was an excellent movie (love Kate Winslet!) and the script is so lean and so deeply moving on many levels. I had "Milk" in hand, but our apartment in Astoria is running out of book space -- so I put it back. I'll read it online.

So, my friends out there, HAPPY 2009 and let's make it a year of tackling our projects and moving forward in whatever way that is for each of us. We have a new PRESIDENT (insert back flip here) and onward we go!!

Peace.

WRITING ACROSS PLATFORMS

I've really stretched my writing muscles this year. I wrote my first play and now find myself writing for broadcast news.

It's way different than the newswriting I did in college. I wrote for my college newspaper at Marist College which was fun. I remember running across campus to get my hands on the college newspaper that featured an article I wrote about comedian Rodney Dangerfield. It was the talk of the campus for about... five minutes... but I'll never remember the excitement of seeing my words published with a cool by-line.

It's important for us writers to keep writing no matter the format or style. My first love is writing screenplays, but I find it exciting to try new avenues of expression. It's a challenge to take an AP wire story and come up with a succinct punchy headline. And we thought loglines were hard!

So keep writing your screenplay, but don't be afraid to try your creativity at poetry, theater, or writing a short story. The most crucial thing is to learn how to tell a great story no matter the audience or the project.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Just When I Thought I was Out...

... They Pull Me Back In.

We all remember that famous line from "Godfather Part III" when Michael Corleone thinks he's free of his gangster ways... but finds himself back in it deeper than ever.

Well, I thought I was done with a particular script (or had a solid final draft), but then I received some coverage from five readers. All of the readers were very thoughtful and thorough in their review of the script -- and made some sound suggestions -- so just when I thought I was done with this darn script, I'm back working on it. As a matter of fact, next week I will devote the entire week to revising it.

It will probably take on a life of its own. It will evolve into a different script, but hopefully one that becomes deeper and more multi layered. Sub plots are as important as the main plot. Sub text as important -- if not more -- than what is said on the page.

On we go.

Hey in case I don't post before November 4th -- please VOTE, Americans.

COVERAGE

All the experts today say people don't like to read anymore.

People want to watch or listen to stories instead of reading them, but thank goodness there are still avid readers out there.

Just look at Oprah's Book Club for proof of that -- or the NY Times Bestseller list -- people are reading.

What about in Hollywood? We've all heard that most execs and agents don't like to read. I think they do, but want to do it quickly. If you had six scripts to read over one weekend, would you want to read a 126 page script when a 95 page script might do the job? It may tell the story better when leaner. That's why all the script gurus tell us to write short narratives with shorter dialogue and leave lots of WHITE space on the page. Don't make the eyes work overtime!

This week I signed with a management company to distribute my script(s). They had one of my scripts covered and the feedback was genuinely helpful. I love readers who actually enjoy reading scripts and take the time to pay attention to detail -- and better yet -- to take the time to share it with you. And when 4 readers all agree on one element -- you know where your weakness is in the script and where your strengths are, but you first NEED that feedback.

So hats off to all you readers out there!

Thank you for curling up with my script and for reading each word with care. Then, taking the time to write a review with insight, reflection and care.

It really matters to writers.

We're writing to be read, after all.

SEPTEMBER & WRITING

Have you ever participated in a writer's group? I was in a weekly group right after Sept. 11th, 2001. As a matter of fact, the Manhattan apartment that six of us screenwriters met at each week overlooked the "pit" of the World Trade Center. The first few weeks of the group there was a burning metal smell coming through the windows -- and the smell of something similar to burning rubber -- and the busy sounds of generators and heavy equipment working non stop. It was a bird's eye view into hell on earth.

The group was fairly productive. We'd each submit 30 pages of our script every few weeks. The members of the group would read it as a PDF online and then come to the group with comments, suggestions, etc. We'd also cast it and read each script aloud. Depending on the reader/actor, we'd either cry, laugh or cringe. At the end of the reading, each person would give a verbal critique to the screenwriter. This was squirm time for most of us -- as another writer would start off positive (a rule we had) and then go negative -- suggesting we change this, change that, go in this direction, make your protagonist a man not a woman or vice versa... and before long, the writers would grow defensive, annoyed and sometimes hostile toward each other. It was kinda funny -- like a support group gone wild.

So yes, a writer's group can be a fabulous and productive experience if you crave feedback, maybe long to hear your words read aloud, or just want human interaction away from your computer. But beware, develop a thick skin and try not to take every comment personally. If you trust the members of the group, listen and rewrite accordingly, but always follow your instincts of what remains true for your story and your characters.

I'm glad I was a part of that unique group back in September of 2001. There are images and emotions that we shared in that downtown Manhattan apartment that will stay with me forever.

HOPE

A week later since my last post and things look much brighter. The Clintons and the Obamas united and a dream seems alive. No matter what your political affiliations, America stands a little taller today with Barack Obama officially nominated by the Democratic party to run for president of the United States of America.

And who needs more hope than us writers? I sent out several scripts last month and have only heard crickets since -- so instead of waiting like most writers do for a rejection or acceptance -- I wrote the producers. Three said they hadn't even looked at my script yet. Many ahead of mine in line. Patience. Hope.

My play is making the rounds to literary agents and artistic directors in New York. It's exciting to send out new work.

Hope is eternal.

THE CANDIDATE

American voters should rent/watch that wonderful 1972 movie THE CANDIDATE starring Robert Redford. It gets better with age. Candidate Bill McKay. The perfect candidate.

In 2008, back in reality land, Obama picks Senator Joe Biden as his VP pick. I'm really beginning to wonder if the Dems aren't self-sabotages. I watched with disappointment as Al Gore and John Kerry bit the dust. Now Obama, a newbie, with super intelligence, picks a status quo mate -- when he could've guaranteed himself and his party a blowout WIN with Hillary Clinton by his side. Half of the Democratic Party voted for her. But Obama chose Biden. He picked a supporting player over a superstar player. Um, exactly how many presidential primary votes did Senator Joe get again? I don't remember. Do you?

Can we imagine a dynamic final scene? As the first African American president and the first female vice-president are sworn into office on a cold January day? Wow, just imagine... BUT NO... why be bold? Why go all out? Why mend fences? Why pick the best odds to win?

If like the others, Obama loses this election, he might travel on the documentary circuit instead of on Air Force One. Shouldn't the Dems be beating the Repubs in the polls considering the state of our country? Two wars? Bad economy? New Orleans and the World Trade Center site still not rebuilt?

Maybe Obama will use all of his brilliance to win an Oscar like Al.

Script note to the candidate: Obama, you can't beat McCain by playing it safe. Don't try. We want a bold hero. Think of your audience. Think of votes like box office. We want to leave the theater happy. Triumphant.

This election reminds me of a bad screenplay... starts off great... exciting... with many ups and downs... big obstacles for our heroes... major wins and losses... and then... we hit that all-important Third Act... and suddenly the plot fizzles... flat-lines... the characters become predicatable and boring... and we leave the theater scratching our heads saying "If only they did this... or did that... it would've all ended well."

Rent The Candidate, people. It truly is timeless.

Janet Lawler
Astoria, NY

AUGUST

It's tough to write with the excitement of the Olympics going on this summer. I'm spending more time watching the Games online and on TV than I thought. It's thrilling and motivating when you see these athletes achieve their goals after working so hard for so long. And how heart breaking is it to see someone work their whole life for this one moment -- and it slips away?

I finished the second draft of my play On the Nod. I'm sending it to theater groups in New York and to some companies across the country. The requirements are different for each submission, but overall, it's easier than submitting screenplays to LA producers, etc. Actors and theater directors are hungry for material and welcome writers. It's a wonderful thing.

On a side note, one of my best friends is an aspiring novelist. Her laptop went on the blink. She's a mother of four -- three kids in college -- one still in grade school. She's spending money on her family and life. No money for a new laptop with the winter heating bill right around the corner. She e-mailed me today to tell me how she woke up this morning and went downstairs to make coffee -- her usual routine -- when she spotted a LARGE gift package on the kitchen table. Her husband bought her a brand new laptop. How sweet is that? No wonder they've been married 25 years.

That husband gets the gold medal in my book!

Go USA -- Go World!

ACROSS THE POND

I'm sending a few scripts to London. There are some agents and producers there receptive to new material, especially from U.S. writers. Wondering if anyone here has submitted materials abroad? In this internet age, distance isn't a problem with electronic submissions of scripts and many of the London agents have offices in New York or LA. Curious on your thoughts out there.

I've finished a solid draft of my play. It's going to be a work in progress for a long time, especially when it's read aloud and performed. Rewrites, rewrites. That's going to be the exciting part -- seeing what actors do with it. There are some great playwriting groups in NYC who help workshop early drafts.

Write on.

LAND LOCKED

The cruise was beyond awesome!

Nothing like dining in the evening, looking out the restaurant window beside you and seeing WAVES. And moon beams dancing on the ocean after midnight from your stateroom window... magical in so many ways, the vastness that exists every day that we miss or don't notice or never experience, but being at sea for seven days gives one a different perspective indeed.

Back to reality -- sent out many emails yesterday to producers in L.A. to keep fanning the flames. Plan to meet with a potential agent this week or next.

Went to see an amazing documentary yesterday called "Man on a Wire". It opens in NY this weekend and nationwide soon. Go see it if you can. It's about Philippe Petit, the famous wire walker, who walked between the two Twin Towers at the World Trade Center in 1974. The film never addresses 9/11 but as we see the towers being erected, the new steel being hoisted up, our hearts sink as we know the final, unspoken outcome. This original footage is a gift.

I just finished reading a book I purchased while on vacation. Oddly, Debra Winger, the actress and now author of "Undiscovered" (an insightful and strangely comforting book) mentioned Philippe Petit in one of her closing chapters. She tells of becoming obsessed with his free spirit, skill and adventurous nature. After seeing "Man on a Wire", I understand how she became obsessed with such a rare, inspiring character.

While in Canada, my friend Mark gave me a terrific book on screenwriting. Don't books mean more to you when given to you by someone, especially a friend? It's called "Screenwriters' Master Class" by Kevin Conroy Scott. Screenwriters discuss, through interviews, their movies/scripts in fine detail. Great read!

I'm still getting a vague wave of motion now and then, even being off the ship for three days. The sea seems to want to hold on to me.

The feeling is mutual.

VACATION & BON JOVI

I'm packing tomorrow for my first cruise ever! We're going to Canada and New England. Ahoy! I can't wait and I can't promise that I won't do the "Top of the World" thing at some point. Hey, I did the Rocky victory dance thing at the top of the Philadelphia Museum steps -- I'm a nerd.

I'm not going to do any official writing on this vacation but lots of mental writing. You know how that goes -- imagining scenes, dialogue, characters, etc.

I have a bunch of scripts out right now awaiting feedback from L.A. producers. An agent in NYC is interested in repping me. We're going to meet after my vacation. I'm looking forward to that.

Bon Jovi's doing a "free" concert in Central Park today. I wanted to see it, but they tickets were distributed at ball parks. I never got to pick up the free tix. They're selling on Ebay and elsewhere for tons of money. Why didn't they just do a wristband? Printing tickets in advance is crazy in this internet sell-anything world.

I'll post after the 20th... until then... livin' on a prayer.

HAPPY JULY 4th!!

Let the fireworks begin!

I love summertime. So far it's been a great summer. Taking two big vacations -- already took one out west to Las Vegas and Arizona -- and next week on a cruise along the eastern seaboard up to Canada (Nova Scotia). This will be a summer of writing, fitness, eating well (love all the fresh fruit & veggie markets here in Astoria, NY), drinking good wine, and seeing family and friends. That's what summer is all about. I hope you have a great one too!

On a writing note, I sent out four screenplays this week to various producers in L.A. -- it's feast or famine. Either nobody responds or too many do at once. What if more than one producer likes it? We should have those problems, right?

There's an old adage that says "The more I practice the luckier I get." That's what you have to do with writing -- write, write, write -- practice, practice, practice. It gets easier and your confidence builds -- like with any activity really. Tiger Woods is the last guy to go home at the driving range even with all his success.

So keep writing, people. Keep your eye on the ball, head down and get to work. It pays off in one way or another. You'll have a finished screenplay by autumn.

Enjoy your BBQ, pools and beer too!

SERVICE

I've been sending out lots of queries on scripts to agents and producers. Several good responses and scripts are in the mail. I have received a few replies from producers who also make an income from reading and evaluating scripts. I've used a couple of services in the past and have found them helpful in getting a solid read on the script, but in these tough economic times (always one for struggling writers), it's hard to dish out $350 for a script evaluation.

So my question -- how many of you have used these services and have they paid off?

I'd be curious to hear your experience.

SUMMER IN THE CITY

As the song says, back of my neck dirty and gritty...

Well, it's not that bad here these days. The heat wave lifted a few weeks ago and it's more pleasant in NYC. It's officially summer. Yippee. Break out the ice cooler and beach blankets!

I'm in marketing mode . I sent out a trillion emails to producers, agents and companies -- I'm getting responses and sending scripts out, which is always exciting. What good is writing a script if it's going to sit on my hard drive? I have to say that literary agents who handle books are the NICEST people. They don't ignore queries to send a script -- they write back with the kindest "no thanks, I don't handle screenplay" replies. I mean the sweetest. They take time to say no and acknowledge your efforts.

We should all say to hell with Hollywood and just write books! Now I know why they say authors get respect from publishers and editors... even the agents are respectful.

I'm polishing the play. I'm polishing a script. I'm sending out PDFs of my scripts electronically to L.A. and mailing packages to L.A. -- it's like playing the lottery. Gotta be in it to win it.

Have a great summer! Don't forget the sunscreen.

Sex and the Box Office

Well, it's a relief to know that "Sex and the City" is a box office hit. As a screenwriter, a woman screenwriter, we know how hard it is to get producers and studios interested in stories about women -- especially women over the age of 30. Unless it's an action piece starring Jodie Foster or Angelina Jolie (and I love those actresses and their movies), it's a struggle to convince Hollywood execs that movies about women will sell.

Carrie Bradshaw and her girlfriends proved them all wrong. Will the recent success of "Juno", "Baba Mama" and "SATC" open up more doors for movies starring women? There is an audience there. I saw "SATC" in Phoenix on its opening week and saw gaggles of women attending. I saw it in Times Square in NYC a week later (with three of my girlfriends) and the theater was packed. Sold out. Pass the Goobers.

So all you women writers, don't get discouraged if you're script is about female characters. Keep fighting. Don't quit. Write your hearts out. Tell your stories.

A movie about four terrific women living in NYC out performed all expectations in Hollywood. A $55 million dollar opening weekend. Great box office.

Now if we could only get a woman into the oval office.

A girl can dream.

ROUGH DRAFT

So I finished the play. Well, finished is not the right word. I finished the first draft.

It's 52 pages long. A page should be about a minute if performed on stage. So it's a one hour or so play. Humor. Tears. Tragedy. Life. It's written from the heart. It's working title is "On the Nod". I'm going to get some feedback on it and then do another draft or two. Then, my plan is to get two actresses in New York City (since I live in NYC, why not take advantage of the resources here?) to read the play aloud. Rewrite again after hearing it. Then submit it to theaters for readings, and God willing, a performance down the road. It's a two character play. Two sisters. Two choices that change the course of their lives.

Anybody know great actresses in NY looking to do a reading? Or a director? The hunt begins.

Happy Memorial weekend, people.

Screen Play

I'm two scenes from finishing my first full-length play. The first draft, that is. It's very exciting to work in this new format for me. Dialogue is always my favorite part of writing scripts and writing a play gives me the freedom to write lines without worrying about screenplay format constraints.

The hardest part of writing play scenes is writing about things that perhaps HAPPEN off stage (since we can't stage every element of the story) and yet keeping it in the moment for the actors. It's a fun challenge. I plan to have a table reading of the play someday in the fall. It only has two characters so it shouldn't be too difficult to cast in NYC. If anybody knows a dynamite stage director close to NY, let me know.

Tribeca Film Festival is wrapping up here in NYC. This year I only was able to see one of the documentaries -- Madonna's "I am Because We Are" which is a very inspirational and heartwrenching look at the battle of AIDS and poverty in Malawi. It's worth seeing if you get the opportunity.

"BABY MAMA" was pretty good -- love Tina Fey & Amy Poehler -- but the story fell a little short for me. Too bad Tina Fey didn't write the script, but it does have some laughs. Amy Poehler has one of the funniest lines about what it feels like to give birth...

... it's a lot like writing a screenplay.

Happy May!

PLAYS & POLITICS

I watched an enlightening interview between actress Kathleen Turner and playwright Edward Albee on PBS's "In The Life". They discussed the commerce of writing for the theater. Mr. Albee (author of "Who's Afraid of Virginia Wolf" and many other plays) said today's playwrights have to struggle to get produced. That often a producer will ask a playwright to have a reading of his/her work and then advise that writer to put in more laughs, or shorten the play by thirty minutes (so people get home at a decent hour in NYC), and other intrusive suggestions. So I guess what I said in my previous post about playwrights being respected and their work being sacred may not be so anymore. It's all about money. Maybe it always was? Broadway is about appealing to the tourists in Times Square and plays without a catchy tune or star fall by the wayside.

That's why lately I'm going to see obscure and not so obscure plays on Broadway and not just musicals with big, flashy budgets. It's important to go to readings and see small productions too.
I know it's hard for out-0f-towners to resist seeing "Rent" or "Spring Awakenin" or "Grease", but if you can squeeze in a play -- it's worth it.

Kathleen Turner just directed "Crimes from the Heart" which is now playing on Off-Broadway. I plan to see that next. She does the announcement before the play to "silence your cell phones" and I hear that's worth the price of admission alone.

Gotta love a woman with a voice that sounds lived in.

PLAY

I'm working on a play. My first. I took playwriting in college and remember doing pretty well. It was so much fun to cast my scenes and watch/listen to classmates perform my "work". I can see why actors and playwrights get hooked on live theater -- that rush of being in front of an audience, experiencing emotions together, breathing the same air as actors. And the best thing -- in theater unlike MOVIES -- the writer is respected and his work sacred.

I've been meaning to write this story before, but was thinking of it in screenwriting form. I realized its rawness would be better suited for the stage. Also I'm seeing a lot of plays on Broadway lately and they sparked something. I just saw "The Homecoming" starring Ian McShane from "Deadwood" fame. Superb. "Spring Awakening" which has a powerful book as well as great music.

How is playwriting different than screenwriting? I love that you can concentrate on the structure and plot, but you can also let scenes breathe and write longer dialogue -- it's not so constraining, like screenplay formats and page counts. You can tell your story and not just show. It's verbal not only visual. It's a nice change of pace. Some of the best gossip or stories that people share with you in real life is SPOKEN not just ACTED out. People like to tell you details. I miss that sometimes in screenwriting. No time for the details. Just cut to the chase.

So I suggest we all read a good play. Try DOUBT written by John Patrick Shanley ("Moonstruck"). It won the TONY for a reason. And tell me if you think the priest was guilty or not at the end of it.

FUN BOOK

I'm reading "The Devil's Guide to Hollywood" by famous and infamous screenwriter Joe Eszterhas. It's a friggin' riot. I got it from the NYC Public library -- hey, I've given Mr. E enough of my hard earned money over the years seeing his many films like "Basic Instinct" and "Jagged Edge", not to mention "Flashdance"!

I saw "Flashdance" so many times when it came out that I probably funded Mr. E's 401K plan. That movie was my female Rocky -- and when Jennifer Beals (excellent now in The L Word) flew through the air in that leotard (or at least her body double) she signified all my passions for life -- and THAT famous wonderful, movie line that her boyfriend says to her when she's about to quit dancing... "When you give up your dream, you die."... well, Mr. E wrote that line... or co-wrote it... anyway, I love that line and the movie. So hats off to Mr. E (even if he did also write Showgirls).

Mr. E says in his book that it's NOT necessary to live in L.A. to be a working screenwriter. In fact, he rules against it -- says you'll lose your voice there. With the Internet and emails, and electronic script submissions, you can sell from a cave in Afghanistan these days (that's my take not his) but it may be slower dial up.

So check out this book. It's funny, scary, helpful and the best thing is I didn't pay a dime for it.
Whoohoo. Go to your local library and give Amazon and B&N a rest, people. Save a tree.

Peace.

SCREENWRITING CONTESTS

So recently I had a great chat with someone about screenwriting contests.

So now I'm curious, all you screenwriters out there -- how many screenwriting contests have you entered? How much $ have you spent on entry fees, xerox copies (before online submissions) and stamps? How many contests did you win? How many notified you that you won? Or lost?

How many didn't cash your entry checks? NOT ONE, huh? Not surprising. It's a racket some of these contests. So enter with your eyes wide open.

I think the top major screenwriting contests are fine and inspiring. But, have you noticed how many gazillion contests are out there now? Where does all that money go that these contests accumulate from hungry writers? Who is reading all these scripts? Do they actually read them? Do they read each and every one that costs us sometimes $75 a pop to submit online or do they just read the synopsis and press delete? Rejection City. (Insert Suze Orman here saying "De-nied! De-nied! You are sooooo denied!")

I've placed in my fair share of contests. I made it to the Finals of the New Century Writer's Awards in 2000 for my spec script "Brutal Pattern". This was the same script that was once optioned by Mike Farrell for Anne Heche (read earlier blog post for full story). Now I would have NEVER known that I made it into the Finals. Do you know how I found out? A male co-worker Googled me and my name and script title came up on the Finals list. So HE told ME.
No way, I said. Get out of here. "Google yourself" he demanded. Now this was around 2001 or so and I had NO IDEA what that meant. Google-my-what? "Come here, ya tech nerd, I'll show you." And he did. There I was. Janet Lawler "Brutal Pattern" A finalist in a contest. Hey, that's my name. My script. How cool was that?! I never win anything (except for Final Draft software once for getting Oscar Trivia right!).

So I ask you all again -- how many writing contests have you entered? Have you ever won? Maybe you won a contest and don't even know it.

Go Google yourself.

SOUND STRUCTURE

I just finished reading a decent new book called "The Screenwriting Formula: Why It Works and How to Use It" by Rob Tobin. It's a short read and very helpful. Tobin claims to have read over 5,000 screenplays working in Hollywood so he knows what eventually works and doesn't when it comes to writing and selling your work. I know, I know... we all want to break the rules and be innovative... but 99% of the movies we see on the screen follow a formula... whether it's making a cheesecake or building a new house... certain elements must go into it. And let's face it, we all know when a movie is working and when it's lost.

Tobin's 7 Basic Elements for writing a solid script are:

Your Hero
Your Hero's Character Flaw
Enabling Circumstances
The Opponent
The Hero's Ally
The Life Changing Event
Jeopardy

Look at your favorite movies. Can you identify these 7 basic elements? One of my favorites that I reference a lot is ROCKY. That script/movie has all of the above and does it to perfection in my opinion. That is a rock solid story (pardon the pun).

But also a comedy like MY COUSIN VINNY works with the above elements. What better Hero's Ally is there than Marisa Tomei?? When her boyfriend/lawyer Vinny (the hero) accuses her of being a hostile witness on the stand, she replies , "You think I'm hostile now wait until tonight." Well, no wonder Marisa T. won the Oscar -- between that line and the "my clock's ticking" --she stole that movie and it was a very good movie overall.

So enjoy the book.

A friend of mine who love going to the movies is complaining that Hollywood is missing the mark. She hasn't gone in weeks and weeks to the movies. She says the movies are boring or a waste of time. Is Hollywood missing the mark? Is that why the Oscars were so poorly rated this year? Where are the great filmmakers and writers? And not just the usual suspects... where is the undiscovered talent hiding?

Hollywood needs new blood if you ask me -- and new writers -- and new producers -- and new directors -- and new talent. It's like what's going on in the political world... think we all want change even on the big screen.

TICK TOCK

I sent two scripts out this week to a talent manager in Los Angeles. I'm seeking a new rep. It's always great to update your best work and get it in the mail (electronically . You never know what agencies are looking for when it comes to genre, but a well-written script usually gets their attention. The two I sent are diverse in tone and style, so we'll see how it goes.

Read "There Will be Blood" which is a compelling screenplay. It's written very tightly from a director's mentality as well as writer's.

Oscars this weekend! I'm not so interested in it this year -- between the strike and some of the movies not being great -- but I did like "Juno". Not sure if it's Oscar worthy as far as best picture, but the script should win. It's inventive and cleverly written by Diablo Cody. I wasn't thrilled with "No Country for Old Men" -- I was until the third act when I think the story lost steam. How could we NOT see Josh Brolin's character killed on screen?? How could that happen off screen when we were so invested in that character for the entire film? It disappointed. And what was with the Tommy Lee Jones character? I didn't find that sheriff added anything to the film overall except a few good lines.

Now "There Will Be Blood" was amazing in every way -- until the very end when Daniel (Daniel Day-Lewis) went hammy in the last scene. The audience I was with started to laugh and it lost it's big dramatic payoff.

But the Oscars are my Super Bowl -- so I'll be tuned in and rooting for the writers!

FISHING IN THE BIG POND

So I started the new year right by writing a little each day. Last year was the first year that I was ever blocked -- it's not that I didn't have ideas and scripts to work on, but that I became discouraged beyond belief and felt it was hopeless. That's what happens when you've been at something you love for a long time and don't see the results you hoped for -- but then you get little nibbles -- little signs from the universe, if you will, that say keep going. And what's the alternative? Writing is my fuel. Without it, I'm spinning my wheels.

So I've been being productive and getting such a high from the process again of just creating -- of writing -- seeing the pages pile up.

Out of the blue this week a friend in L.A. put me in touch with a manager. I'm sending the rep two scripts this week. Amazing how some things come to you when you're not so focused on it.

Glad the WGA strike is over! History! Yeah. We can have the Oscars -- not sure how thrilling they will be this year -- but I'll be watching no matter what.

Back to work.

FIRST TIMERS

Do you believe in beginner's luck? It amazes me that some first-time screenwriters hit it big, win Oscars and say screenwriting is no biggie. Wow. How come the rest of us take the classes, read all the books, write the scripts, go through agent after agent like bad dates, and only get nibbles of success, if we're lucky? But we carry on just the same. The dream lives on.

Look at Diablo Cody this year. She's nominated for an Oscar for her original screenplay JUNO.
She told Oprah that writing her Oscar-nominated script was, you guessed it, no biggie. Oprah, who owns a production company, looked incredulous. How could it be that easy for a newcomer to write JUNO?! Diablo Cody (cool name huh, but not her real name) said "The movie's only 91 minutes long. How hard could it be?" Damn.

One of the best scripts that I've read -- and movie that I've seen -- is "Thelma & Louise". This Oscar winning script was written by Callie Khouri. I admire her a lot. That script is solid, excellently structured and contains two of some of the best female characters ever to grace the big screen. It was Callie Khouri's first script. She nailed it, baby. The idea came to her as she drove into her driveway -- "two women go on a crime spree across the country". Piece of cake. No problem. Let me just bang out an Oscar worthy draft right now.

Okay and let's not even discuss Ben Affleck and Matt Damon's first-timer success with their original script "Good Will Hunting" and the gold statue.

Now do all these writers REALLY bang out that Oscar worthy script that easily or does it get developed into an Oscar worthy script by numerous execs and producers? Who knows. The hype and myth sell mags and books for us starving screenwriters. It gives us all hope. It also makes some of us green with envy. Is your script better than some of theirs? Did they just have better contacts? A better agent? Did the planets line up for them?

I like to think they did it on their own -- that they wrote the scripts the way they claim they have -- these fortunate writers. And if they didn't, well, let them still take credit and the glory. How many writers get to do that in their lifetime? Not many.

Now get back to your desk and bang out that Oscar-worthy draft.

Hey, it's no biggie.

Janet Lawler
Astoria, New York

Writer's Strike and Your Vote

A friend of mine lives and works occassionally writing for television. She's always been active with the WGA, West. She commented to me recently that she's never seen writers so united as now. They're organized, pumped and determined to stand their ground. It's about time in my opinion.

I hope the strike gets resolved soon. Imagine the Oscars being canceled or READ on TV. Good heavens -- how boring would that be! Almost as bad as those long winded speeches where producers thank their wives and tell their kids that "you can go to sleep now, Bobby and Kimmy" while clutching their Oscar.

I'm almost done with my new script outline. I have this system of writing pages and pages of notes, keywords, slang and then consolidating it into acts. It's coming along well. I wish I could think of a better title, but it's a working one for now. Soon I'll start breaking down the scenes and sequences -- and then soon enough the dialogue. I'm seeing the characters and finding their voices, to steal a Hillary Clinton term.

How exciting is the '08 presidential election going to be? I just hope We The People stay as united as the WGA writers are right now on the picket lines. Don't buy the media hype on any candidate. Pay attention, do your own research, and don't listen to those knucklehead TV guys who exaggerate constantly to get ratings. Tim Russert, Brian Williams, Anderson Cooper, and Chris Matthews need to all take a chill pill. They're not reporting -- just hyping -- thus swaying -- and for once, the American people didn't fall for it.

Amen.

OUTLINES

I'm beginning a new spec script and outlining it. Some writers don't like to work from an outline. I find it helpful for the first draft or two. I use it simply as a reference. I'm not rigid about it. I find it helpful to write "notes" before I start a script -- little phrases, key scenes, character quirks, slang, etc. Then I put them in groups -- so if I need slang to fit within my narrative or dialogue, I have a list to choose from. I did this when I wrote the softball spec script and needed various sports terms and catch phrases.

I also think it's helpful, for me, to break the Three Act structure up so I see visually where I'm going from one act into another. Simple beats. I don't get crazy over it. But I do find that it's important to lay the ground work -- to me, it's like anything that you're starting from scratch -- cooking, baking, building a piece of furniture, anything you create -- it saves time if you know where you're headed. The final result may still surprise you, but an outline helps to get you on your way like a map.

Even with maps, we still get lost -- too bad they haven't created a GPS for scriptwriting. Not yet anyway. I'm sure some Hollywood guru is working on it.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Wishing you the best of everything in this New Year of '08. I hope you find the focus and energy to meet all your goals. Yesterday I was able to break through a major story block and find my way again which will lead to putting seat in the chair and writing another draft of my spec script.

Keep dreaming, keep writing!

UNPLUGGED

Hey, folks, sorry for going MIA for so long. Life has a way of doing that. I've been focused on various projects -- one being the Internet talk show I co-executive produce www.youtube.com/markmolaro and working on other media projects. I have been reading screenplays and keeping abreast of the WGA strike, but basically chilling on the screenwriting front (which is very very unusual for me -- quite possibly the first time this has ever happened to me). Has it ever happened to you? I don't think it's writer's block -- I have ideas -- I'm just a little down on the process of selling and marketing your work. It's a drag at times -- waiting for someone to give you that break. I'm looking into using new media as a way to get my work produced -- like artists are doing with music and other forms of art on the Internet.

Have a wonderful wrap up to '07. See you here in the New Year!

I promise to snap out of my writer's funk by then.

AGENTS, AGENTS...

I'm back out searching for representation. I terminated my agreement with my manager in L.A. as it never felt like a good fit. You just know if it's a love connection like being on a blind date. You know what you're looking for and if you don't find it, move on.

Agents -- most are useless. I've had two screenplays optioned and both deals were done on my own. I've had three agents over the course of my writing career and none lead to solid jobs. I find I'm more proactive on my own. It's hard because I'm not a self-promotor but you have to be in this business. Today's agents and managers are interested in seminars and workshops and generating an income off the lucrative screenwriting world. Sad but true.

A friend of mine who is well-known in television put me in touch with a successful NY agent. I have to contact him this week per her recommendation. He's a partner in the agency and they seem to represent novelists most, but they have dabbled in television and film too. Change is good.

I've been producing an new Internet talk show. We have some great artistic guests like the filmmakers of "Jesus Camp" (Oscar nominated for Best Documentary) Rachel Grady and Heidi Ewing; and "My Country, My Country" (filmmaker Laura Poitras also nominated for an Oscar) but all of these fabulous women lost to Al Gore's "An Inconvenient Truth". It was a great year for docs. That's where the most courageous filmmakers are if you ask me. The interviews will be available after April 6th so click on www.markmolaro.com (Mark Molaro host, Janet Lawler producer) to see them soon! You can also check out our show The Alcove with Mark Molaro on YouTube, iTunes and Google Video.

Write on.

REVISIONS

I'm almost finished with my sports script and just printed a draft to pencil through, then it's back for another polish. I enjoy rewriting, but it gets tricky when you mess with the original structure of the script. It's like pulling a puzzle apart. But each rewrite makes my scripts stronger and it's amazing when it's printed on paper how you see the pot holes.

Blake Snyder is holding a 2 day structure seminar in NYC in February. Check out his website blakesnyder.com if you're interested in perfecting your script's structure, beats and logline.
I won't be attending but the last Blake Snyder seminar I attended was well worth it.

SAVE THE CAT

Let me highly recommend you read Blake Snyder's popular screenwriting book "SAVE THE CAT". It's a very easy read, with some laughs, and it will give you numerous pointers on perfecting your next script. I just took Blake's one-day seminar here in New York and it was terrific. Great, proactive group of screenwriters all picking an expert's brain -- Blake is one of those rare screenwriting authors/instructors/consultants who actually has sold screenplays. He's a working writer in L.A. and couldn't be kinder and more patient. What a pleasure to be a part of his class.

A few years ago I took a two-day weekend course with a very well-known L.A. screenwriting guru and he was rude to his students and very condescending. He would limit everyone to something like three questions to be asked after the seminar. I can understand that because some students want to hear their own voice and we're not paying them for the class. We want to get the lecture from an expert -- the instructor. You know the type? The screenwriting know-it-all-student? So I can respect limiting questions in class, but unlike Blake, this other instructor was just downright snippy. So before you pluck down cash and register for seminars, check out these folks thoroughly. Well-known or not, if they're not respected of the writer and his or her struggle, move on. There are plenty of pros out there who will help with a smile -- Blake Snyder is one of them. Buy his book! It should be a part of your screenwriting library. I just added my signed copy to the shelf.

Now back to writing!

GIVING THANKS

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving. Mine was spent in NYC and was low-key this year. No trains to catch, no big family reunions. It gave me a chance to slow down. I was going to go shopping at Macy's on Black Friday but decided not to -- I just paid off a credit card and it is the BEST feeling in the world (okay, maybe a close third to other things). I think half the Black Friday hype is created by the media anyway. If you're not spending on Friday, we feel left out of the party. Shut off the TV and go write and save your money.

I'm taking a writing class in December to recharge the batteries for winter. It will be in NY and should be just what I need.

I'm ready to tackle that major rewrite of my sports script. I have ScriptShark's notes and my own outline all ready. I'm listening to inspirational music that relates to my script's tone. And I'm seeing the script(movie) play out in my head which is always a great sign. It's becoming a vision now. I'm getting to the point where I can't wait to sit down and start writing.

It's been three months! How can I write a blog about screenwriting and NOT write for three months? Well, I tinkered with old scripts and read about screenwriting and watched lots of movies. Writing is daydreaming often, not necessarily sitting down and writing every moment.
But I must say, this is the LONGEST break I've ever taken. Why? Well, two reasons. One, I've been working a lot (I work in TV news to pay the bills) and it's a good-paying job. I got used to the nice paycheck and working long hours (overnights). I'm exhausted half the time. The other reason is that I got the wind knocked out of me creatively once too often -- when a script just languished in L.A. and people made bullshit promises with no follow-through. I've been at this game a long, long time. I have never wavered, but this last setback made me so discouraged (not for writing, but marketing my work) that I just pulled the plug for awhile. I needed a break.
But you know how an actor says, if you can do anything else but act, do it. But if you can't, then you're an actor. Well, it's the same with writing. When I'm not writing, I feel empty and unfocused. I feel like there is this huge void. I feel sad not to be creating because I love the process of writing and being with my characters, seeing them grow and develop, getting into and out of all sorts of situations.

So for me, writing a screenplay is like being a prize fighter. I have to go into training now (which is what I call outlining my script, rereading my old draft, absorbing the notes, doing research, and blocking out time to write every day. I start December 1st with butt in chair and FADE IN. Insert ROCKY theme music here!

My new script should be done by January 1st. It's really just a rewrite, but a page one rewrite. Wish me luck that I go the distance.

NYC HAPPENINGS

Pretty soon there will be that pre-holiday lull in the screenwriting world where nobody seems to be doing business -- not in New York. In December, Blake Snyder, author of a great screenwriting book called SAVE THE CAT will be doing a one day seminar in the city. It's only $100 and well worth it. I read his book early this year and loved it. It gave some very clear tips on improving my writing and script. I recommend this seminar and for the price you can't go wrong. For $140, he throws in his new Story Structure screenwriting software which usually sells for $50.

INFORMATION ON BLAKE SNYDER'S SEMINAR:

Date and Time: Saturday, December 9, 2006 9am-6pm (with a 1 hour lunch break)

Place: Teatro La Tea (main theater)
107 Suffolk Street
Suite 200
New York, NY 10002
212-529-1948

TO SIGN UP: Contact Isabel Holtreman via email at isabel@blakesnyder.com or
call her at 1-877-525-5083 (toll free).

Blake will be available for private consultations on Friday, December 8th and all day Sunday, December 10th. Please contact Isabel for details.

Also want to let you know about David Negrin's screenwriting group that meets in NYC. You can find out more info at www.screenwriters.meetup.com If you want to have your work read and hang out with fellow screenwriters, check this out.

Happy Thanksgiving, everybody, and keep writing!

SCRIPT SHARK

There is a script evaluation service that I have been recommended to numerous times. The first time was in 1999 when I submitted my script to a very well-known production company. The development person there said "call Script Shark" and let them help you polish this script to make it more marketable. I talked to someone at Script Shark then, but never went as far as to use their service.

As aspiring or working writers, we're easy targets. Everyone has a software program, how-to book or DVD that will help us sell scripts. Some are helpful, but we can spend a lot of dough and still flounder. I advise going to your local library for FREE books on screenwriting (if they don't have a new one, sometimes you can order it from a bigger branch), search Ebay for cheaper, used scriptwriting software, scripts, DVDs, etc. Try not to make giving money to others your second career goal. You should be writing scripts not checks.

Back to Script Shark -- my agent recommended I try them regarding my sports drama script. The service for an evaulation and extensive development notes (like the studios would give you) costs $350.00. Ouch. Why pay that? Well, sometimes you've written the best draft you can (at the time) and need an objective, professional opinion to truthfully tell you where your strengths and weaknesses are in the script. Don't pay for it unless you're submitting your BEST work to them. I procrastinated (hating to dish out that kinda cash) but finally sent the script and check in.

I got the notes back (online) and they were terrific. Right on the money. And what I really liked is that the reviewer (anonymous name, just initials offered, but you can look up the person's credentials on their webpage scriptshark.com) wasn't out for blood, but out to truly improve the material and help "the author". It was well, well worth the $350 bucks. The script was professionally reviewed, with detailed coverage, and then the notes for development offered concrete tips to make the next draft stronger and more marketable.

There are a million script evaluation people and companies in LA and NY. Many former studio readers do this on the side. So if you're going to use one of these services, do some research. Ask them for a sample of a previous evaluation to see their style, ask who will review the material and their credentials, ask exactly what you will get for your money and how soon (don't wait more than a month or so), and what connections they have in the business. Script Shark will post your improved spec script through their website to professionals in the business.

You can also ask friends to read your script, but how objective and in tune are they about the biz and the writing skills you need to sell a script? So I say consider spending your hard earned cash on your writing, but do it cautiously and with research. There are some great services out there, but select wisely.

Now I have to take my notes and see where and how I can improve my sports script. Back to the computer. It never ends, does it?

As John Grisham just said on The Charlie Rose Show, "if you're not writing at least a page a day, you're not a writer." So let's all get busy.

LOST AND FOUND

Okay, sorry for not posting in some time. I'm fine, but somehow my computer erased my username and password and I couldn't log in to Blogger.com. Isn't that lame? I had the info on "remember me" and when my Mac crashed I couldn't remember my username and password. Duh. Isn't that an awful feeling? It's like when you're at the ATM machine and forget your pin number. The world is made up of too many user names and passwords if you ask me.

So I'm back. Hope this finds you well. Go store all your usernames and passwords in a safe place. Never rely on computers.

As for writing, I paid to get some professional development notes. A professional reader in LA gave me incredible notes on my sports drama script. It will help me a lot with the rewrite. It's great to have an objective opinion from someone who seemed to really get the story and characters. His concerns and questions were right on the money and can be easily fixed. It cost $350 for this coverage and development notes, but I look at it as an investment in my work.

Well, glad to be back!

PLAYING THE ODDS

So I sent out about twenty emails to Hollywood big-shots from the new Hollywood Creative Directory I purchased. I got two responses -- one saying "Send your script", one saying "Not for us, but thanks." Not great odds so far, but one script went in the mail this week, so I'm happy.

Also heard from my long-lost agent. She aske me if I was writing? Uh yeah. Are you selling??

Keep cool. It's hot as a hair blower here in NYC.

MARKETING YOURSELF

I splurged and bought the Summer 2006 Hollywood Creative Directory. I'm almost done with my latest script and plan to start picking up the phone to call producers. I have an agent, but to be honest, I don't see much progress from when I was unrepresented (except that it gives you a little clout and a foot in the door sometimes).

I went to see Madonna in concert at Madison Square Garden. She is priceless, ageless, and told the audience to never let anyone tell you that you can't accomplish your dream. She is one woman who knows the force of self-promotion and marketing. Do you think she waits around for people to call? Or ever did? I think she would drop you in a heart beat if you didn't produce or promote. Is it any wonder she's been in the biz 22 years and still tops the charts?

Keep writing and promoting yourself. Never give up. Keep the dream alive.

SIGN ON THE DOTTED LINE

I signed the option.

It's for nine months. This young, L.A. producer thinks he has great opportunities for our animation script. The option was for free this time (he paid $500 a year ago). Bottom line -- he can market my script better than I can from NY so we'll see what happens.

It's hot, hot, hot and humid in NYC. I'm working crazy hours in TV news. I'm still finding the energy to pound the keys though. Interesting term -- pounding the keys. I was editing with a NYC reporter the other day. He was sitting next to me writing his on-air script... and he was literally POUNDING the keys... but with such enthusiasm and joy. This is a local reporter who LOVES his work. You can just tell. He LOVES his job. Do you feel like that when you write? Sometimes I pound the keys with a little more excitement. Does it help our writing? Does that energy translate to the page? I bet it does.

Seeing lots of summer flicks "The Pirates of the Caribbean" (pretty good, but longgggg), "Superman Returns" (pretty good, but longgggg), "The Devil Wears Prada" fun, but something I've seen before (watch "Working Girl" with Melanie Griffith). I love Meryl Streep though and Anne Hathaway is turning into a fine actress. I saw her at a panel discussion for "Brokeback Mountain". She is bright, theater-trained, and an amazing personality.

Keep cool.

IN LIMBO

So my writing partner and I haven't signed the option agreement yet. The producer wants the option for a year with no financial terms attached (meaning for free). It's a dilemma because he's a new producer (young) but he works for one of the biggest entertainment agencies in L.A. He can literally walk the animation script around to offices for us. So, although we could use the cash flow, we may sign the agreement to let him shop it for free. I've made a total of $3,000 on options over the years. I'm told some writers get nothing.

I've reworked my sports script and will begin getting that out again soon. I made Act III much stronger. It seems like there is a new sports movie coming out every few months, along with animation films.

I'll keep you posted on the option once we sign on the dotted line.