All screenplays on the simplyscripts.com and simplyscripts.net domain are copyrighted to their respective authors. All rights reserved. This screenplaymay not be used or reproduced for any purpose including educational purposes without the expressed written permission of the author.
The Official Screenwriters Showdown (currently 13516 views)
mcornetto
Posted: February 14th, 2011, 10:13pm
Guest User
This is a thread where screenwriters face-off, compete against each other in quick rounds. Two screenwriters are chosen, then a logline. They have two days to complete a script that will fit in one post (approx 5 pages or 7,850 characters including spaces and line feeds). The scripts will be delivered to whoever is posting them via PM.
The logline will be picked by a non-interested person from
The scripts will be posted anonymously in a separate poll thread. There will be a script A and a script B and the voters will be asked to choose between them. Voting will last approximately 24hrs after scripts are posted.
The winner of a showdown may continue on and challenge another writer. Any non-winning writer may play again but not in consecutive challenges. This is ongoing but will be halted for other events like OWCs.
I will clear this thread before every round is posted.
If you would like to be on the roster of possible players for future challenges then please PM me. Thanks.
Please remember this is only an exercise and meant to be fun.
Results: First round: Ledbetter vs RayW. Genre: Family Comedy Theme: Frogs and the winner is RayW Second round: RayW vs khamanna Genre: Commercials Theme: pastry and anti-smoking and the winner is RayW Third round: RayW vs Ryan1 Logline: The ex-wife of a Gambler goes on a killing spree. and the winner is Ryan1 (with special guest appearance by grademan). Fourth round: Ryan1 vs two mystery contestants Logline: A gang leader is accused of raping a lab technician. and the winner is Ryan1. Fifth Round: Ryan1 vs letiskev Logline: In 1840s New Orleans, debutantes search for the Fountain of Youth in a graveyard. and the winner is Ryan1 Sixth Round: Ryan1 vs Dreamscale Logline: A schizophrenic hitman babysits for the adopted daughter of an advertising agent in a pub. and the winner is Ryan1 Seventh Round: Jwent vs JonnyBoy Logline: The horny wife of an optometrist finds a dead body in an apartment. and the winner is Jwent Eighth Round: Jwent vs Darren Logline: A widow goes on a pilgrimage to Mexico to find her reincarnated husband. and the winner is Jwent Ninth Round: Jwent vs Andrew Logline: A young woman/man receives a package in the mail. Opening it could change his/her life. The question is: will she/he open it? and the winner is James. Tenth Round: Jwent vs LC Logline: The grandmother of a soldier hides from the police. and the winner is Libby. Eleventh Round: LC vs screenrider vs Mystery Contestant. Logline: A narcissistic comedienne and a tax collector get completely trashed at a luxury resort. and the winner is the Mystery contestant (Ryan1). With special kudos going to LC and screenrider for being good sports about the surprise entry. Twelfth Round: Ryan vs James Challenge: Write an iconic scene from any movie as a completely different genre. and the winner is Ryan. Thirteenth Round: James vs Michael Challenge: Any genre, 1-5 pages, signature item: Map. and the winner is James.
Write an iconic scene from any movie as a completely different genre.
So take a movie like STAR WARS. Find a scene that everyone knows. Like when Hans, Chewy, and Luke rescue Princess Leia. That scene is heavy action.
Choose another genre, say mystery. And rewrite the scene.
You choose the scene and the genre you want to write it in. Make sure the genre is different enough from the original so that we all get to see the scene in a different light. Yes, you can change all the dialogue you want, but extra credit if you use lines we already know in completely different ways.
It's meant to make both of you struggle a bit. If it were a piece of cake then it wouldn't be a challenge. Would you have preferred the logline about 16th century France?
You'll do great and I'm looking forward to seeing what both of you do with it.
I have both of the scripts and I'm tempted to post them right now but I'm going to wait until I'm home from work. Both of you did great, it was very interesting to see what you came up with.
Ok. If you want to do it, you two pick the challenge.... Write the scripts - post pdfs on dropbox - Don't include your name in the pdf. Send me the public links and I'll put up a poll.
I anjoyed that clip, thanks. Now that yer done with the melodrama can we write? I'll submit a script (any genre, 1-5 pages) via a dropbox link by tomorrow night.
Sound good? Or are you gonna backpedal like your buddy Dreamscale.
Quoted from mcornetto
Ok. If you want to do it, you two pick the challenge.... Write the scripts - post pdfs on dropbox - Don't include your name in the pdf. Send me the public links and I'll put up a poll.
Sorry I jumped the gun. Guess I'll wait for the pirate to chime in. Doesn't matter if we keep them anonymous. I've read a few of Jwent's scripts. He's got a grainy font you can spot a mile away. Might as well just put names on scripts?
I anjoyed that clip, thanks. Now that yer done with the melodrama can we write? I'll submit a script (any genre, 1-5 pages) via a dropbox link by tomorrow night.
Sound good? Or are you gonna backpedal like your buddy Dreamscale.
Sorry I jumped the gun. Guess I'll wait for the pirate to chime in.
I won't back pedal, I love this stuff... writing under the gun. Problem is a third party has to pick the challenge. Apparently, Michael doesn't want to.
The thread says 24hrs to write the script, but it's usually been 48hrs to my recollect. It can't be something you're already working on, that's why the challenge is dictated by a third party. Any volunteers?
Hold it, buckaroo. This is story against story. Any genre. That's it. And no, I don't have any scripts on the backburner. I'll write one fresh. If you need 48 hours fiine by me. Whattaya say?
Usually, the genre and a theme were randomly chosen to make sure everything about the script was fresh. Funny, or sad thing is, that we've actually had established, experienced writers use previously written scripts for OWC's in the past. You never know with some peeps.
Funny, or sad thing is, that we've actually had established, experienced writers use previously written scripts for OWC's in the past. You never know with some peeps.
That's easy for you to say. You're not the one going up against the writer of So Pretty, Teaching with Violence and Eleven Eleven.
I may have bitten off more than I can chew. I guess we'll see.
Very true, but think how lucky you are that I turned down your challenge. My slate includes No Meat, Of Cannibals and Cabins, Return to the Cabin, and of course, Wolves at the Door.
I've wanted to see this resurrected for a long time now, so I took it upon myself after I saw M's challenge to Jeff. I think it's a great idea and with the lack of OWCs it makes the board more fun.
Michael used to come up with some VERY specific loglines that were hard to write a short for. Look at some of the old challenges! But, if I'm just creating more work for the mods, I feel I may have imposed upon them.
Michael, are you going to accept entries from third parties this go around? I wouldn't be surprised if the defending champ chimes in if you do.
There could be a number of surprise mystery entries...
Kinda takes the fun out of it, though I'm a UFC fan. Two fighters in one cage. Throw a bunch of other peeps in, next thing you know it's a fake-ass WWF thing.
Should keep this one simple, IMO. Just me and the pirate.
Kinda takes the fun out of it, though I'm a UFC fan. Two fighters in one cage. Throw a bunch of other peeps in, next thing you know it's a fake-ass WWF thing.
Well, bro...you can't be all bad then. MMA rocks. That we both agree on.
Hey, I think this is a great idea and I'm sorry I didn't jump in.
Maybe anyone who wants can enter a script and have it "held" to face the winner. I don't know...I know it sucks when these mystery entries surface that you weren't counting on, but I think I'm definitely writing a fucking script for this.
Another thought - doesn't dropbox give the writer the ability to continually change his script whenever he wants to? Could be an issue...
I say just post it on the thread like the old challenges...
Marc, you old Cleveland mofo...I remember that script. I think I liked it...think I loved the premise.
Strangely, I've been thinking about tuning up my challenge script, cuz I really liked it as well. I may actually post it as a short soon.
Cornie, I didn't realize that only the votes for the 2 "real" entries counted. Great idea..more than an idea, I guess since that's the way it has been..
Hey, I think this is a great idea and I'm sorry I didn't jump in.
Jump in! It's just between Michael and I, But if you win the votes I will tip my hat, sir. I've got a great one cooking! Starts with a pit bull humping-- Shit! giving too much away.
I agree that the entries should just be posted here, raw. You have to space out your own writes, but I don't mind.
You guys should try out the CODE command for html. It is done pretty much the same way as a quote.
Code
INT. SIMPLYSCRIPTS - NIGHT
Bert types, then posts.
ON MONITOR
His words are in the code box. It looks so pretty.
JAMES (O.S)
Crikes! How did you do that?
James burps. It rumbles like thunder.
BERT (O.S.)
Have another beer and figure
it out yourself, Einstein.
Just sayin'. Much nicer than posting them "raw", as you say.
I've got a great one cooking! Starts with a pit bull humping-- Shit! giving too much away.
Y'know James, shit like that just takes all the fun out of it.
@bert - I'm fine with the code. And yes, this is screenrider. Good call. Now this is the part where I either get booted or Don lets me stay. I wont hold my breath on staying but at least I've got a clear conscience. Do what you must.
The Harrop returns without even letting his old buddy know...and challenges me to 1 of your old "challenges"? Shame on you, Michael. What up, bro? Hope things are going well for you.
Kev, you wrote the script I'm thinking about...or Marc? WTF?
Jeez I miss you guys. It's a love/hate thing. I even miss Jwent. Go figure. Sorry, Jeff, I wanted to PM you, but frankly I was enjoying this undercover persona just a little too much.
You gotta admit I've been a pretty well-behaved member up until last night. In any event, I imagine this account will get nixed when Don finds out.
Until then I'm gonna keep on writing. Who knows maybe Don will show some compassion and let me stay! Yeah right.
Whatever happens may God bless all you screenwriters.
I had no idea. Bert PM'd me and thought it was you...I said no way.
Yeah, dude, we (at least some of us) miss you too, brother. You seem very different to me...your writing...much cleaner...had no clue. Have you posted any scripts under this pseudonym? I can't remember.
In all honesty and seriousness...I hope you're well and I also hope the DON and the powers that be allow your return.
I had no idea. Bert PM'd me and thought it was you...I said no way.
Yeah, dude, we (at least some of us) miss you too, brother. You seem very different to me...your writing...much cleaner...had no clue. Have you posted any scripts under this pseudonym? I can't remember.
In all honesty and seriousness...I hope you're well and I also hope the DON and the powers that be allow your return.
You had me fooled for sure, bro! Funny...
I'm well as can be expected. Clean, sober and just trying to stay creative. Hate being here under a fake name though. I'd just asoon get kicked off again then have to keep up this facade. It's exhausting. Especially with Jwent throwing out his coded jabs at me. Good one, J.
Bert, if Don kicks me off could you have him remove my scripts The Parallel Blue and Reception? Thanks.
I'm gonna keep writing for this challenge until whatever happens happens.
Btw, you might have been an instigator on the forums in the past, but you have always been a top notch writer in my book!
Thanks Pia. I was very disappointed to hear your vampire script deal fell through. I was really looking forward to seeing that on film. I hope you'll keep shopping it around.
Thanks Pia. I was very disappointed to hear your vampire script deal fell through. I was really looking forward to seeing that on film. I hope you'll keep shopping it around.
What? It's being shot right now and LionsGate is onboard for distribution and co-production and distributor for the sequels..
Hey James & Michael or (screenrider) good luck to the both of you. I've read scripts from each of you guys and you're both very talented writers. Can't wait to read what you guys come up with - Dirk
Holy crap! I've never read a thread with plot points and twists before! I'm dying to see the ending and resolution!
Welcome back, Michael, if you were ever gone. Lol. I had no idea or clue.
Hey Jeff. James is from Cleveland. I'm from Youngstown. It has all the same drugs, sex, and guns as Cleveland does, but half the price.
Anyway, I'm not too sure which script for the 1840's New Orleans challenge your referring to, but Michael didn't post mine up with the 2 that were officially in the challenge. He posted it after with a couple of other ones.
The Elevator Most Belonging To Alice - Semi Final Bluecat, Runner Up Nashville Inner Journey - Page Awards Finalist - Bluecat semi final Grieving Spell - winner - London Film Awards. Third - Honolulu Ultimate Weapon - Fresh Voices - second place IMDb link... http://www.imdb.com/name/nm7062725/?ref_=tt_ov_wr
Michael G. Harrop in the Hizzouse! When I saw Bert call you out I went back and read your latest posts. I knew it was you! I also knew you wouldn't turn down a challenge. Despite what you think of me, I do not run around these boards challenging other writers to a showdown. Just you, buddy.
I don't know if Don will let you stay, but I'm all for it. And I will not make things difficult for you as long as you don't bang people over their heads with your religious point of view. Leave the mods alone. If you put a script up, leave it up!
I've been really good here of late... sticking to reviews and responses to people who read my stuff. Nothing more. I sleep better at night.
I know we've tried this a few times before without success. I have a one hour window to write when I get home and before the Browns kickoff for their yearly thrashing by the Ravens. I know my story and will try to get it in. I suggest we do it the old way as my grainy pdfs are a dead give away. I may try to create an html like Bert suggested. Then PM them to Michael.
All the mooshy welcome back shit aside, I plan on this being nothing short of an epic-level ass whoopin. Just you and me, buddy! Mano a mano!
Okay, James, now that you're done beating your chest, good to see you, too. Yeah, hopefully Don will alow this to happpen, but truth be told I'm not gonna hold my breath. I'm expecting this account to get nixed at any moment. But until then I'll just keep writing my script as if...
As far as it being anonymous? Peeps can spot your style of writing as well as mine a mile away. So I see no point in even trying to fool the masses.
Just submit it, name it and claim it, IMO.
Code
FADE IN:
INT. WALMART - NIGHT
SCREENRIDER, (50’s) grabs a box of Wheaties, drops it in his basket.
He turns a corner sees JWENT, 40's, dressed like a pirate, with a
box of Tampons.
Awkward beat.
JWENT
Uh...I was gonna use these to plug the holes
after I shoot ya full of lead.
SCREENRIDER
I see.
Another beat. Nothin' left to say.
They go oppoasite directions.
Bert's idea is good aside from the fact that this code is kind of a pain. Basically have to copy and paste script then format it again. It'd really be best tio do dropbox, IMO.
Holy crap! I've never read a thread with plot points and twists before! I'm dying to see the ending and resolution!
Welcome back, Michael, if you were ever gone. Lol. I had no idea or clue.
Hey Jeff. James is from Cleveland. I'm from Youngstown. It has all the same drugs, sex, and guns as Cleveland does, but half the price.
Anyway, I'm not too sure which script for the 1840's New Orleans challenge your referring to, but Michael didn't post mine up with the 2 that were officially in the challenge. He posted it after with a couple of other ones.
Yo Marc, the Niners are staying in Youngstown now, before we head to NY to smash the Jets.
Am writing now. Will try that HTML thing after I'm done, but if it's a boat load of work, hell with it. I'm a sucker for tradition and this is the way it's been ran since its inception... A simple PM to Cornetto and he posts them anonymously.
I think that is the way to go and even you've done it before. Less work for mods and if you like the script you've written, submit to Don after the challenge in proper pdf format.
That's the way I'm going. Hope to have mine done tonight!
Okay, so two big things made me decide to "un-lurk" and post - the return of Screenrider (welcome back Mike, for however long or short it is), and the fact that Pia has Lionsgate distributing her film (Congratulations! Outstanding work and very happy for you!).
Okay, I will probably take you up on that Michael, I already have a site for hosting scripts, but it's a dead giveaway. And I know you love dealing with me and SR!
On page 3 and digging it. I will take full use of my 48hrs though and post tomorrow. By 7pm eastern time. That's when I started talking smack.
And yes, I agree both scripts should be anonymous for now. I won't put my name on mine.
And then! The three people who give a shit can vote. Ha ha.
Okay, so two big things made me decide to "un-lurk" and post - the return of Screenrider (welcome back Mike, for however long or short it is), and the fact that Pia has Lionsgate distributing her film (Congratulations! Outstanding work and very happy for you!).
AJR
Anthony, good to hear from you. Any luck with Grand Ave.? PM me if you get the chance.
Sent my script to Cornetto, so I'm in under the wire. I don't know what time it is in Oz. I did ask him to do the dropbox thingy for me, but I will try it out later.
I always used yolasite to host my scripts, but I was continually pissed off as I was making changes to my feature when readers were bringing up mistakes. And then the next reader would bring up the same stuff that I already fixed.
everyone here seems to dig it so I will give it a look soon. Off to watch some locale high school football. Best of luck, SR!
M Alexander...are you in or whatever? Dude, c'mon, you called us out and must have had a 1-5 page any genre script in your mind or on your computer. What's the problem...the map trip you up?
WEAK!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I vote for my C first place and James' A second place, by a hair of Screenrider's chinny chin chin
M Alexander...are you in or whatever? Dude, c'mon, you called us out and must have had a 1-5 page any genre script in your mind or on your computer. What's the problem...the map trip you up?
WEAK!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I vote for my C first place and James' A second place, by a hair of Screenrider's chinny chin chin
.
Submitted 23 minutes ago. It's a little shaky, but oh well.