Started off the "ego" then learned to become the exception... I like other people's ideas especially if they're better than my own...
I've just started writing my pilot for Loserville  and using my original pilot as the 2nd episode, because I was willing to listen.  

Mark

Why doesn't "The Lazy Procrastinator" category get a mention?

I just can't relate to these circus performers, rewrite monarchies and dope dealers!

Quoted from Colkurtz8 Why doesn't "The Lazy Procrastinator" category get a mention? I just can't relate to these circus performers, rewrite monarchies and dope dealers!

I guess the procrastinator isn't on the list cuz they don't finish screenplays.
All the listed problems were post first draft related to me.

Can't be an unsuccessful screenwriter even without finishing a script.

Regards,
E.D.

I guess I would fall into the Rewrite King and Juggler, but really I'm working on becoming someone who can spot a professional script whether or not that means it'll be successful is audience decision, but I would consider myself Student downside to that is possible being the student too long, upside longevity.

BLB

Quoted from Busy Little Bee I guess I would fall into the Rewrite King and Juggler, but really I'm working on becoming someone who can spot a professional script whether or not that means it'll be successful is audience decision, but I would consider myself Student downside to that is possible being the student too long, upside longevity. BLB

Hey BLB,

Thanks for contributing, I have a question...
Why do you want to be proficient at spotting a pro script?
Are you looking to break into the Development part of the industry?
It's one of those few areas where there's no official training or diploma for it.

Regards,
E.D.

Ah, my Speed Demonicity.

It will be the death of me.

Definitely the juggler. I love writing too much. Simply working on one idea just isn't enough, otherwise I get bored out of my mind! I figured it's better to have three completed scripts rather than one crappy script that I lost interest in half-way through writing...

Quoted from danbotha Definitely the juggler. I love writing too much. Simply working on one idea just isn't enough, otherwise I get bored out of my mind! I figured it's better to have three completed scripts rather than one crappy script that I lost interest in half-way through writing...

I'm in agreement with you here...
I always have a few projects "in play" in my brainpan.
However, I think the article is referring to more like a dozen plus things.
To where the author is so mentally spread out, progress is nigh impossible.

And as for myself...
I try to minimize my shortcomings simply by the company I keep.
By doing everything I can to work with folks higher up the chain than me...

But it's more about challenging myself to raise my skills than career advancement.
Learning from those folks and applying those lessons is the ticket for me.
If I can perform at their level, the career stuff will mostly take care of itself.

Regards,
E.D.

Great article, E.D.

I probably fall most squarely into #2.  I usually write the first draft in 5-7 days.  But, to be fair (to myself : ) I do spend 2-4 weeks outlining a project before I sit down to write.  I usually have a 10-18 page outline with every scene SLUG'd and every scene's conflict mapped out.

but then I fall into the Juggler, because I usually work on the outline as I'm rewriting whatever script I just finished.

Shit.  I'm screwed.  : )

Chazz

man, even before I read this there's a sneaking suspicion that I'll tick AT LEAST 3 of those boxes.

edit: yep.

"The Speed Demon's problems are multiple. Their scripts read as if they were vomited on to the page. They're rough to read and rarely contain valuable ideas, strong dialogue or clever screenwriting, simply because there's only so many worthy brainstorms one can come up with in a single day. Screenwriting isn't about finishing something fast, it's about bringing exciting ideas to the table." lol

"In the Rewrite Queen's head, a "rewrite" can account for changing 3-5% of the script, polishing dialogue, changing a scene around here and there. They are their own development executive, trying to determine what must be changed in order to bring the script into "sellable" shape." lol

"The Ego has the hardest time with advancing as a screenwriter because he thinks his script is great. He responds to every note with a long explanation of WHY he wrote something in a particular way. Instead of listening intently, The Ego digs in and prepares for battle. Very few of these writers make it to the point of representation--they are unable to meet constructive criticism with new, fresh ideas" NOT****ingLOL

plus as a bonus tick - I'll take the "The Lazy Procrastinator" category as well.

godAMMIt.

but... there are development executives? rly? how do i apply?

Hm. Seems I'm a Rewrite King and a Pusher. Kinda funny when someone points this out to you. I feel like I just came out of therapy.

Quoted from pmailhot Hm. Seems I'm a Rewrite King and a Pusher. Kinda funny when someone points this out to you. I feel like I just came out of therapy.

Well, now that you're out of therapy...
Go write another spec!

I'm pretty sure you got more than that one story in you, pal!

Regards,
E.D.

Quoted from marriot but... there are development executives? rly? how do i apply?

Hehe, most start out as readers/interns. My understanding is...
If they don't quit, can lick boot and have half a brain, they move up.

Ironically, Development Executive isn't something you can go to school for! LOL
It's just one of those niche jobs that's mission criticial in this town.
Once you demonstrate value to an industry insider, they want to keep you around.

Regards,
E.D.

Darn. I guess i have a maybe one and a half, if you substitute 'making tea' for 'licking boot'. One for not quitting and the half for the tea-making, because it'd only be british tea. Y'know. Like it's meant to be.

Are there any british writers/producers you know of who could do with someone who can make a proper cuppa? If so, PM me!

Quoted from marriot Darn. I guess i have a maybe one and a half, if you substitute 'making tea' for 'licking boot'. One for not quitting and the half for the tea-making, because it'd only be british tea. Y'know. Like it's meant to be. Are there any british writers/producers you know of who could do with someone who can make a proper cuppa? If so, PM me!

Actually, things are different in the UK.
I hear tell from int'l colleagues that the agency system is much simpler there.
You can actually talk to the talent before you have all the money ready. LOL

Regards,
E.D.