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!
Sunday, May 03, 2009
Monday, April 20, 2009
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
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
Monday, April 06, 2009
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.
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.
Friday, March 20, 2009
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.
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.
Monday, March 09, 2009
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.
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.
Tuesday, March 03, 2009
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.
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.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
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.
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.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
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.
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.
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
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.
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.
Saturday, November 22, 2008
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!
Saturday, October 18, 2008
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.
... 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.
Sunday, September 21, 2008
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.
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.
Saturday, September 06, 2008
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.
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.
Friday, August 29, 2008
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.
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.
Monday, August 25, 2008
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
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
Saturday, August 16, 2008
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!
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!
Saturday, August 09, 2008
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.
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.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
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.
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.
Saturday, July 12, 2008
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.
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.
Friday, July 04, 2008
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!
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!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)