TOUCHED BY LEGENDS

Photo:  Ken Hively, L.A. Times


Army Archerd died this past week at age 87.  


He was a reporter.  He wrote a well-known and well-regarded column for Variety (until 2005) and later continued writing his column for Variety.com.   


He was one of the original bloggers, you might say, giving us the latest news about Hollywood deals, casting and things he felt we needed to know, for better or worse.  He was the columnist that broke the news to America and the world that Rock Hudson was dying from AIDS.  Those who knew Army Archerd said his intent was never to be malicious, but to speak the truth when it needed to be told -- he also stood up against the blacklisting of the 1950s.  He served in the United States Navy during WWII.  


I grew up watching Army Archerd interview stars on the red carpet for the Oscars.  This was long before Joan Rivers and the more snarky personalities came along to do it.  He seemed to know everybody in Hollywood and they knew him.  There was a mutual respect for each other and the movie business.  


Just recently I discovered that Army Archerd was born in the Bronx, right here in NYC.  Hey, that's where I was born.  But, Mr. Archerd touched my life in a more profound way that was much more unexpected... 


Back in 1999, my original screenplay "Brutal Pattern" was optioned by a Hollywood production company and Mr. Archerd wrote the following about it in his column:

Army Archerd

Posted: Wed., Jan. 13, 1999

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Heche won't quit before shooting NYPD pic

GOOD MORNING: As for Anne Heche and Ellen DeGeneres quitting the biz, Heche called "Brutal Pattern" producers Mike Farrell and Marvin Minoff to tell them, "I didn't mean you!" Heche is set to star as an NYPD detective in their pic, in which she and her male partner (yet to be set) are tracking a serial rapist. The tough story is scripted by Janet Lawler.  The producers are enjoying the success of "Patch Adams," now over the $84.2 million gross mark. 

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The producer Marvin Minoff later sent me that original Variety magazine.  I still have it and treasure it.  The script never got made into a movie like planned, but it was still a wonderful day when my unknown name and script got a mention in Mr. Archerd's column.  My mother was thrilled.

We also lost another great writer in Hollywood -- Larry Gelbart.  He wrote gems for the screen, theatre and television.  He wrote the TV series "M*A*S*H" and "Tootsie" among other well-known projects.  I grew up watching those doctors "Hawkeye" Pierce, Trapper John and B.J. Hunnicut on CBS.  Their wisecracking dialogue sung through my TV set back in the Seventies.  I didn't always get the jokes at the time, but I knew what I was hearing belonged to a unique voice -- that voice originated with Larry Gelbart, on the blank page.  Unfortunately, I never had the honor to meet Mr. Gelbart, but B.J. Hunnicut went on to someday option my script (actor Mike Farrell).  

What is it they say about those Six Degrees of Separation?

Both of these men, Army Archerd and Larry Gelbart were giants in Hollywood.  They touched all of our lives, in one way or another.

                                                                              

Until next time.

   

Sept. 11, 2009

It's raining here in New York City today and on TV the names of the victims of 9/11 are being read aloud while family members cry and carry pictures of their loved ones protected under umbrellas.

It's eight years since this great city and country came under attack.  How has your life changed in those eight years?  Did you get married?  Have a child?  Graduate? Write a book?  Travel?

I think back on how much my own life has changed.  I can't help but wonder how the thousands of lives taken that horrible day in NYC, Washington, D.C. and PA would have changed too -- how all those men and women would be living out their lives today if things had only been different on that September morning in 2001.  Like us now, they might be bemoaning the end of another summer, seeing their kids off to the first days of school, getting ready for football season, and enjoying every day life.

We have that opportunity today on 9/11/09 to live our lives just a little better for them.  We can hug and kiss our loved ones, call someone we miss, and through our words and actions contribute to our country again to make it stronger and united (and not only through days of tears).  Eight years went by in a blink.

Life does go on for sure, and we've all changed as individuals and as a nation, but it's important every year for us to look back, to remember and to never forget .

JUNO TURNS SLASHER  

I usually digitally record a TV show on Fox Movie Channel called "Life After Film School".

It's a half hour cable program where one celebrated director, writer or producer sits down with three grad students and answers their questions about the business and art of filmmaking.  It's not the most spontaneous show in all the world, but the guests are generally interesting and offer mentoring advice to students.

This week's guest was Diablo Cody.  She is the Oscar-winning screenwriter for the movie "Juno".  She also has written the soon-to-be released movie "Jennifer's Body" (a horror movie with a vintage wink).

Diablo Cody is well-known as a writer, but said she feels more comfortable being off camera and that winning the Oscar was basically terrifying and an out of body experience.  She says an Oscar winner should have a body of great work and she feels undeserving of having won one ("I'm this buffoon").  She doesn't keep the Oscar around because it just seems weird to have one.  She's very self-deprecating and cavalier about the business because she says she never tried to get into "the business" like a gazillion writers.  She stumbled into it by writing her blog "The Pussy Ranch" when a Hollywood producer read it and called her up.  Diablo Cody (her real name is Brook Busey) says that her super fast launch in Hollywood just doesn't happen to most writers and she doesn't know why it happened to her, but it did.

But Diablo Cody was doing something important all along before being discovered and eventually writing her Oscar-winning script.  She was WRITING.  She loves to write and can't believe she's now getting paid to do it, but the point is, she did it even when she was down on her luck.  She believed in her voice and what she had to say, whether someone was going to read it or not.  The whole blog thing and Internet craze was fairly new when she first delved into it as a way to express herself.

She found an audience any way she could and now she writes movies.  Not bad.

I also liked that Diablo suggested for women writers to band together and help each other along.  She has an informal group of women screenwriters in Hollywood that she  pals out with and they give each other pep talks, notes, a shoulder to cry on and professional tips.  Find your niche and unite!

Until next time.

THE OLD SWITCHEROO

Have you ever paid for one movie but once you got inside the theater you went to see something else?

Guilty.

It happened to me today.  I plucked down my $12.50 at Regal in Union Square to see the new Sandra Bullock movie "All About Steve", but once inside the lobby, I decided to go see "Inglorious Basterds" instead.

I wasn't planning to ever seeing "IB" in theaters.  I get a kick out Quentin Tarantino's movies, but was going to skip this one for its scalping scenes.  But today, after I read the NY Times' horrible review of Sandra Bullock's new comedy -- I decided a scalping might be easier to take.  Sorry, Sandy.

"Inglorious Basters" was better than I expected.  It could stand to be edited by about twenty minutes (some scenes go way too long), but the characters were terrific and the story riveting.  I really could have done without all the scalpings, stabbings, choking and Brad Pitt's accent (I didn't buy him in this role.  He acted through the whole movie with his eyebrows like he was doing an impersonation of Rhett Butler.)  I liked his character, just not the way Brad portrayed him -- he never seemed authentic to me.  A little too clever and over the top.  But, hey, he's a A-list movie star and I still love looking at him (rope burn and all).

And for all you Sandra Bullock lovers, don't despair, my movie ticket will go toward her box-office totals instead of Quentin Tarantino's this weekend.  Will someone please write a great script for Sandra Bullock?  She needs it.

Have a wonderful Labor Day weekend.  Enjoy your BBQs and take a break from writing.  We all need to recharge and a three day weekend is the perfect excuse to slack a bit without guilt.

Enjoy the fruits of your labor.

Until next time.

YOUR MUSE?

In a follow up to my last post about Steven Pressfield's terrific book "The War of Art", he writes about artists being open to a nudge from our muse or angels or some divine, subconscious inspiration that might whisper something to us in the creation process.

Do you believe in a muse of sorts in your process of creating?  Do you lose yourself in a trance-like state when you're writing?  When you've had an incredible writing session -- do you feel absolutely drained -- as if you weren't present when writing, but somewhere else for that time?

In his book, Pressfield quotes William Blake's "Eternity is in love with the creations of time."  Wow, I love this.  Does eternity care about what we're writing?

Paul McCartney says that he "woke up one morning with the tune in my head."  That tune turned out to be "Yesterday".  Where did that tune originate?  Was it a gift to us through another creative source?

This is deep stuff, I know, but I wonder.

Have you ever experienced divine intervention when writing?  Do you believe something untapped comes from a higher energy when you're writing or dreaming?  Or do you feel alone and on your own to pound out that next bad draft or masterpiece?

I've heard countless musicians, writers and painters say they awoke from a dream and had the beginnings of what later became an iconic song, book or painting.

What are your thoughts about your muse?  

Until next time.

THE WAR OF ART

So I'm reading this book I got from the library called The War of Art by Steven Pressfield and it's just what every writer needs -- a kick in the tush.

The book states how it's human nature to allow resistance to delay our dreams or to discourage us from action.  Resistance's best friend is Procrastination.  Don't we all hang out with these two more than we should?  Their like negative friends that keep a lock on our lives as artists. 

It's beyond difficult to start a novel, screenplay, play or article as a writer.  Some days it's hard for me to write this blog!  We sit around a wait for our muse or for that BIG idea or that block of time when we can do it.  Well, The War of Art says we'll never get anywhere if we allow ourselves to be talked out of working or delaying it until TOMORROW.

What Pressfield says is be a pro about your dream -- do the work.  Sit down and write.  Make it part of your day and no matter what get those pages, minutes or hours in.  If you do that every day, the pages will pile up and your book or script or play will materialize before yours eyes.  Don't be critical of yourself or foresee failure or obstacles -- just concentrate on the work of the day.

It's like working out.  If we say "I'll do it later" or "starting Monday"... we let ourselves off the hook today.  So breathe and sit down and write.  Then go celebrate by watching a movie, or spending time with your kids, or taking the dog for a walk, or whatever it is you do to reward yourself!   You deserve it.

(BTW, Steven Pressfield has written many other books like "The Legend of Bagger Vance",  ""Gates of Fire" and "Last of the Amazons.")

And special thanks to Jennifer J. Bennett who gave this blog an award for one of her recommended blogs!   Thanks, Jenn!  Check out her blog at... jenniferjbennett.blogspot.com 

Until next time.

GUEST POST

I was asked by ScriptXRay.Com to contribute something to their POV page about screenwriting. ScriptXRay is a great blog with lots of tools and helpful information. Check it out and here's a link to my piece.

http://www.scriptxray.com/2009/08/31/pov-writing-outside-the-box/

Summer is coming to an end. It was a great one and very productive. I finished the first draft of my novel and a short play.

Looking forward to autumn in New York!

Until next time.

(500) DAYS OF SUMMER

You have got to check out this movie!

It's this lovely, offbeat small movie buried in a sea of big, over-hyped summer movies. It's still playing in theaters (so don't miss it) and has amazing word-of-mouth buzz, but it's cast is not A-list (but hopefully they will be someday) and there are no explosions (except for some one's heart).

(500) Days of Summer takes a quirky, refreshing look at an old subject -- love. It's creative in its execution and clever in look and dialogue. But it's not self-consciously witty -- and the soundtrack enhances an already fine film.

Zooey Deschanel captivates from the moment she appears on screen. She's like a breath of fresh air. She reminds me of a young Debra Winger. She's attractive, yet complex and a lot more is going on underneath than what she projects on the surface. Joseph Gordon-Levitt is equally charming to watch with his understated manner and genuine portrayal of someone trying to win at the game of love. Both actors do a great job.

The screenplay is by Scott Neustadter and Michael H. Weber. They also wrote "Pink Panther 2", which I didn't see, but their script for (500) Days of Summer is a gem. I hope to be able to read it soon and that they continue to write from the heart.

Director Marc Webb's film has a richness to it and doesn't look like it was shot in L.A. -- at least not anything I've seen before on screen.

The ending is warm and charming. Summer and Tom are this screen generation's Katie and Hubbell.

Until next time.

"9"

So last night I went to a screening in Manhattan for the soon-to-be released animation movie "9". It's Focus Features upcoming release http://www.filminfocus.com/focusfeatures/film/9

"9" is first-time feature film director Shane Acker's baby fully mature. Here Acker expands his Student Academy Award-winning 2004 short film by the same title into a full-length movie. The screenplay is by Pamela Pettler (Monster House, co-writer of Corpse Bride). The producers are heavy-hitters Tim Burton (Corpse Bride), Timur Bekmambetov (director of "Wanted" and Jim Lemley (producer of "Wanted").

This animation movie also has a diverse range of celebrity voices added to the mix including Elijah Wood, Jennifer Connelly, John C. Reilly, Martin Landau, Christopher Plummer and others. They don't act it out in a hammy manner like some voice-overs in Hollywood but keep the dramatic, realistic element to their characters.

"9" is an action-packed adventure. It's a animated fantasy epic about what happens when the world's machines turn against mankind and result in mass destruction and a post apocalyptic world. In a last ditch effort to save humanity, the scientist who created the invention known as the Great Machine... also created 9 small creations given the spark of life. Can they save the world and salvage the best of humanity's spirit or turn evil themselves?

Jennifer Connelly plays the ass-kickin' brave warrior #7. Christopher Plummer plays the stubborn group's leader #1 with vigor. (This seasoned actor hasn't intimidated me this much since he blew that darn whistle for his kids in "The Sound of Music".) The characters in "9" are compelling, but I didn't become too emotionally attached to them like with other animation characters like in "Finding Nemo" or "Kung Fu Panda". But the mechanical number characters were interesting enough, especially surrounded by such incredible visuals, sound and action. The ending was a little "Ghost"-like in some ways but cool.

Tim Burton said of Shane Acker's original "9" short film that it "was among the most extraordinary 11 minutes of film I've ever seen. So that explains why the young director got a much bigger budget, bigger names and more toys to play with this time. He puts it to good use.

"9" opens on 09/09/09. That date should be easy to remember.

Until next time.

QUENTIN TARANTINO

Well, it looks like "Inglorious Basterds" is off to a good start at the box-office. It's the number one movie in the country and pulled in $37.6 million in tickets. It is Tarantino's best movie opening to date.

So pop the champagne for Quentin Tarantino and The Weinstein Company. I don't think the movie opened big simply because of Brad Pitt (as some media reports say) -- but more because Quentin Tarantino hasn't released a movie he directed since "Death Proof" in 2007.

Tarantino recently sat down with Charlie Rose for an hour interview. It's always fascinating to watch him be interviewed with his wealth of film knowledge and manic manner. I've seen him interviewed a lot lately and he's happiest when he's got the floor and able to rant about his passion -- filmmaking -- but when an interviewer asks a question his face freezes momentarily almost in disappointment for having to listen instead of speak. Have you ever met people like that? Who will talk and talk and talk with you giving them the floor for however long they need, but when you ask something or say something, they look impatiently perturbed? Lol. That's Quentin Tarantino.

But, I enjoy listening to his take on writing, directing, filmmaking and the business overall. I like that he primarily considers himself a writer first. He loves directing but told Charlie he will probably hang up his hat when he turns 60 and "become a man of letters" writing novels. His love for writing is paramount. And I have to say, he is one of the greatest at writing dialogue. I recently reread "Pulp Fiction" (co-written by Roger Avary) and it's gripping from the opening scene in the diner. His dialogue runs very long in all his movies, but it's so compelling, it still moves the story forward.

Tarantino said it took a long time to write "Inglorious Basterds" because he couldn't stop writing. People said he had writer's block, but he said it was just the opposite, "I couldn't shut my brain off" from writing.

I won't see his latest movie in theaters, but will eventually check it out on DVD. It's funny because my 68 year old aunt just saw it and said it was bloody but held her on the edge of her seat for 2 hours and 30 minutes. So, that's a good endorsement for me. But, a Facebook friend saw it and said it was slow and a big yawn. Who to believe? That's movies and stories -- they speak differently to all of us.

One thing is for sure. QT has a distinct voice and style. He hasn't sold out to do the big studio pictures or just script doctoring to make big paychecks. He really takes his time, obsesses over each script and delivers from his heart. What more can we ask? So hat's off to him.

Until next time.

BIG NAME STARS HURTING AT BOX-OFFICE

Do you usually go to see a movie for the premise or for the movie star in it? Think about it.

I think for most people it's both. When I see previews in theaters, I usually know right away if I'll go see that movie -- sometimes it's simply seeing a trusted face back on the screen like Jane Fonda (in "Monster-in-Law") or Meryl Streep in "Julie/Julia" or Philip Seymour Hoffman in "Doubt". The clips are so enticing or the premise just grabs a hold of you -- a subway hijacked ("The Taking of Pelham 1, 2, 3), a boss marries her assistant to stay in the country ("The Proposal"), and so on.

According to today's New York Times http://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/21/movies/21stars.html?em, A-list actors are not opening movies the way they used to -- that includes box-office slumps from everyone from Johnny Depp, to Julia Roberts, Denzel Washington, Will Ferrell, Adam Sandler, Tom Cruise, Eddie Murphy and many more. Is it the stars that are letting us down or the projects studios are putting them in? Who is to blame? Was "Funny People" a Judd Apatow trip up or Adam Sandler's? Are remakes really necessary? What do they offer the audience new except for the latest special effects, look at The Taking of Pelham 1,2,3 for example? The original is ten times better and didn't make you dizzy with effects and noise.

Hollywood will use this opportunity now to cut paychecks for stars, especially since DVD sales are down and people are staying away from theaters to explore other forms of entertainment these days. But, let's face it, there is nothing quite like going to the movies. I love it. I love seeing a really great movie with an audience (one that isn't texting or checking their phones every two seconds).

And, what about Meryl Streep? She seems to be picking good roles and successful projects. Her stock is through the roof. She's A-list for sure (in talent and receipts). Maybe stars need to be a little more demanding in the projects they accept -- even Ms. Streep recently said that she feels today's top talent are wasting their uniqueness and gifts on inferior projects.

So let's all share the blame in these bad movies coming out. It's the studios who green light these weak scripts, stars who do them for the paycheck, and moviegoers who don't vote more discriminatory with their money and expectations.

Now it's Friday which means new movies have come out. Should I go or stay home? Hmmm.

Until next time.

Photo: New York Post

THE WEINSTEINS

There is an article in the New York Times about the Weinstein brothers. You remember them, right? The article talks about how powerful these two producers were when they owned and ran Miramax, but now struggle with the Weinstein Company, having sold Miramax to Disney years ago.

Their new Brad Pitt/Quentin Tarantino movie "Inglourious Basterds" needs to be a hit. The Weinsteins are losing money and their reputations. The Times article points out that Harvey Weinstein took his eye off the ball and ventured into other markets besides the film business. Did his decision to expand the company in essence destroy their magic touch? Bob Weinstein gets a lot of credit for keeping the film business going, but yet some of the movies coming out of the Weinstein Company aren't very exciting. They seem too marketed to niche audiences and not as alluring as the old days with "The Crying Game", "The English Patient" and "Pulp Fiction".

The Weinsteins -- especially Harvey -- seem to have people wishing them to fail. Maybe it's because they made enemies or believed their own heyday publicity, but some people wouldn't mind if their company closed up shop.

I hope they refocus and get their company back on track. They made some great movies in the 90s that made Oscar night exciting. They made some quality, successful pictures.

So I'm rooting for them... but I won't go see "Inglourious Basterds". It just doesn't appeal to me in any way. I'm kinda over the Quentin Tarantino violent flick and I think Brad Pitt and The Weinsteins could do much better. All of these guys seem to be coasting into middle age and it's disappointing. I hope they get their mojo back.

So, I'll wait for their next movie to be released and keep my fingers crossed.

Until next time.

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/08/16/business/media/16wein.html?hpw

HEAT WAVE

It's in the 90s here in NYC today. Summer has finally arrived. Nothing like the heat coming off the sidewalks to make you sweaty.

Doing some writing today. It's always hard to pick up after a vacation break. I did some daydreaming about scenes and characters but now it's time to sit down and hammer out some actual new pages. I just revised about twenty pages to get myself up to speed and now will stare at the blank page and continue on. Don't you love being a writer? All the anxiety, procrastination and joy that comes along with it all?

Keep cool and keep writing.

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!