The July 2018 Scripts of the One Week Challenge

There are 28 scripts by 25 writers.

Riot Time Knock Off by Pepe Roni - Short, Drama - On a hot Summer day, a lovelorn man has only one solution.

Pergo's Beast by 0 - Short, Drama - A lonely young woman escapes into the night as a shaggy beast, but the other costumed nightwalkers shun her when her head comes off.

Damask Memories by 0 - Short, Drama - A pregnant refugee fights with the authorities and European winter for the life of her unborn child.

Tunnel Rat by Only the Don knows - Short, Drama, War - A US Marine encounters unexpected perils as he clears an enemy tunnel.

A Beautiful Day by 0 - Short, Action - A crash victim tries to escape her car before it cooks her alive. 2.5 pages.

Weather Worn by 0 - Short, Drama - The consequences of relentless heat.

It's Killer by Paul Stanley - Short, Comedy - When it's too hot to even think, sometimes a serial killer needs more than just death.

Sam, I Am by I.C. Kareem - Short, Crime, Historical Fiction, Thriller - A heat wave, a blackout, and a serial killer take their toll on three Studio 54 patrons on July 13, 1977.

You Should Be Ashamed, Richard by Huge Rant - Short, Comedy, Romcom - A trappist monk has to confront a past trauma in order to attain true love.

Beach of Intentions by 0 - Short, Family - Struggling to connect with his kids, a divorcee Dad conjures a plan to inspire them.

A Taste Of Hell by Dante on the beach - Short, Horror - When all the planets in the solar system align with the sun, the Earth is briefly transported into another dimension. As it does, a father playing on the beach and his daughter gets to experience their own personal hell.

Too Hot by 0 - Short, Comedy - When his air conditioner goes out on a 104ďż˝ day, a man goes to the store to get cool where he is followed by the manager.

Wish You Were Here by 0 - Short, Drama, Romance - Dallas and Marci are just trying to beat the Florida heat on a romantic weekend, but sometimes life gets in the way.

Rain Check by 0 - Short, Drama - An ageing farmer struggles to cope with the harsh conditions that are decimating his land.

Killer Vibes by 0 - Short, Action - Sent to a music festival to perform a hit, a reluctant assassin struggles with both the mission and the unknown foe that stalkes her.

Red Sun Burn by Bob Zeebub - Short, Crime - {no logline}

We Are All Dust In The End by 0 - Short, Drama - A farming couple face the consequences of the drought from Hell.

Shortlisted by Lukeecerf Bord - Short, Action, Thriller - While waiting to be interviewed, a young, struggling father finds something that will turn his life around in ways he didn't expect.

Heat of the Moment by Big Foot - Short, Drama - A stereo thief is presented with a unique opportunity to do something good for a change.

MQ-LC4 by 0 - Short, Drama, Sci Fi - Heat was just the beginning of the end.

Curiosity killed the cat by 0 - Short, Comedy - One man's love for his feline friend goes a little to far.

Deserter by 0 - Short, Horror - A man finds out just how haunting the past can be.

The Cave by The Number Thirteen - Short, Action, Thriller - Some signs should not be ignored.

Die, Fluffy, Die - Aquapussy by S. I. Lentz - Short, Comedy - During the dog days of summer, Max the beagle must invade the neighbor's backyard to escape the sweltering sun. The only thing stopping him is an adorable kitten named Fluffy.

Change by Nobody Important - Short, Drama - A passive but opportunistic ice cream clerk jumps at the chance to impress his secret crush when his chance arises.

The Burial by 0 - Short, Action - The burial of a simple farmer is interrupted by a known gang and a mysterious drifter. - fdr format

28 scripts by 25 writers? How does that work?

Really good turn out. Thanks for running this Don and Pia. You two are amazing! :D

Zack

Multiple entries, Zack, by the same writer/s.

28 scripts?? Farkin love it!!! I asked for a good, solid script in the face and there it is...

Let's review the hell out of these bad boys!!!

Quoted from LC

Multiple entries, Zack, by the same writer/s.

I thought that was forbidden? Hmm.

Zack

Quoted from Zack

I thought that was forbidden? Hmm.Zack

Pia allowed it this time.

Great turnout! Look forward to reading these.

Seriously awesome turnout! Great job Pia, and Don!

Thanks for the quick turnaround on getting these up, Don.

Let the fun begin!

I've already seen from some comments that some people are looking for the stories to be about heat or cold. Pia said that does not have to be the case, heat and cold only have to feature in the stories somehow, the stories can be about something more.

Bear that in mind when reviewing and rating.

Quoted from Dreamscale

Pia allowed it this time.

Ha! Missed that somehow. Or did I? Maybe I pumped out four pissers and I'm just trying to cover it up. :D

Zack

Gonna review a few a day so as not to burn myself out. Well done to all who entered.

It’s 0530am Sunday here and I just woke to see all the scripts are up. I will have a good day reviewing these after my son’s football match at 0930 lol

Don and Pia, cheers guys!

Cheers Don and Pia

Great turnout guys.... should be fun

Quoted from ReneC

I'm guilty of that comment a few times and I'm sticking by them, although not DQ-ing anything.

The "Theme" is Summer Heat (Cold). It's not write a 6 page short, no dialogue. mention the temperature.

What Pia said was:

Quoted Text

The heat or cold should have some effect on the story or characters. It does not have to be about the weather. However, simply writing that the sun beats down on the desert or that heat shimmers off the blacktop is not enough.

I've read a few where the only real mention of the weather is incidental. i.e., it does not drive the characters or the story anymore that if it were perfect 72 degrees. Pia gives an example of what is not enough and, from the first batch I've looked at - it was exactly that. i.e., not enough.

So, while not disqualifying any script, I am giving more credit to scripts where the heat/cold drove the characters, plot, etc. I think that's a tougher road and more of a challenge. That's what I'm keeping in mind. That being said, obviously - to each his/her own.

I agree with Dave. The heat, the cold, need to be pivotal not incidental, to the plot. Not just a bit of shivering or sweating in the background.

Quoted from LC

I agree with Dave. The heat, the cold, need to be pivotal not incidental, to the plot. Not just a bit of shivering or sweating in the background.

And I agree with Libby:).

Too many so far where the temp is just irrelevant.

Quoted from eldave1

And I agree with Libby:).

Too many so far where the temp is just irrelevant.

I will have to disagree here, but I get what you guys are saying. This "parameter" is a small thing, and as Pia made clear, shoudn't be a deterrent to a good script that merely makes it clear whether it's hot or cold.

Again, to each his or her own. But, why seriously would anyone bring a great script own because the heat or cold is only in the background?

Quoted from Dreamscale

That's not what Pia said. She said:

The heat or cold should have some effect on the story or characters. It does not have to be about the weather. However, simply writing that the sun beats down on the desert or that heat shimmers off the blacktop is not enough.

And she gave a clear example about what is not enough.

It is important to me because writing a non-dialogue script with a Hot or Cold Weather THEME is fundamentally different than writing a non-dialogue script where the weather is simply mentioned. AND - the constraints, as is the case with all OWCs, is fundamental to the challenge.

Quoted from eldave1

We agree to disagree, Dave, and that's totally cool. I think you're a great writer and I respect your opinion, but here, i do not agree with you.

Quoted from Dreamscale

We agree to disagree, Dave, and that's totally cool. I think you're a great writer and I respect your opinion, but here, i do not agree with you.

All cool, Jeff and thanks for the compliment. Did not expect to change your mind. Just wanted to blow out more of my diatribe:).

Think we fill find peeps on both sides of this issue.

Quoted from eldave1

Think we fill find peeps on both sides of this issue.

It is not enough to simply mention that the Peeps are divided, the division must drive the story!

Maybe it'd fit the parameters better if you said the Peeps north of the Equator will be all gooey and disgusting, while the Peeps south of the Equator will be frozen solid.

Quoted from FrankM

Now that wouldn't make any sense as peeps or only sold in the United States and Canada. There are no peeps south of the Equator. I thought everyone knew that.

Totally agree with Dave and Lib on this but interested to see what Pia reckons?

Will start reviewing soon

Quoted from stevie

Totally agree with Dave and Lib on this but interested to see what Pia reckons?

I think I was pretty clear. I will leave it up to you guys how you interpret it when you review. I will refrain from being more detailed and causing more trouble in doing so. :)

Quoted from eldave1

There are no peeps south of the Equator. I thought everyone knew that.

I find this an appealing trait. I may be moving south of the Equator soon :)

Quoted from eldave1

There are no peeps south of the Equator..

No Jeffs either, praise the Lord ;D

Quoted from stevie

No Jeffs either, praise the Lord ;D

I'm so fucking HUGE I stretch through both equators! ;D ;D ;D

Quoted from Dreamscale

Thanks to the Arse Blaster, my cheeks are stretched so HUGE its not funny ;D ;D ;D

As I review I write down the script title on piece of paper and if it was good, excellent, ok, or nope. I'm also indicating if the weather has impacted the script as well by giving a number out of 10. This will impact on my votes at the end.

Time for a break lol Will continue later

Well every OWC has its differences

However, I am tad surprised, actually shocked, to see HEAT having to be a defining feature, rather than what a summer means, as I’m in the northern hemisphere.

I thought I nailed a summer element, something that defines a summer. I actually thought it was strong part.

On no, it’s not hot enough....end of.

I’m really not sure that is the best way to consider these scripts...but we all have differences. Not very open minded.

Quoted from ReneC

I'm seeing this a lot as well. The story doesn't have to be about a heatwave (although I'm seeing a lot of those) or the ice age. If the script is set on a hot day in summer, it passes in my opinion. It doesn't have to be a central part of the story.

I look at it this way: if the theme was 'the beach', the story would have to be at, include, or be about the beach. Being Summer heat, same same. I've only read a couple that bordered on not having anything to do with Summer heat at all.

Quoted from Reef Dreamer

I don't think anyone is close minded. I'm still waiting for a compelling argument to change my point of view. Haven't seen one yet.

The theme was: Summer Heat if you live in the northern hemisphere. Cold weather if you live in the southern hemisphere.

Theme = something that unifies many script elements such as plot, characters, and dialogue.

i.e, your story theme should related to heat or cold. Not sure how that could be more clear. I can't imagine that the purpose of the challenge was to merely state or reference the temperature in your script. Otherwise - it would have simply been write a 6 page script.

It's akin to have an OWC where the theme is Romance. 6 pages. no dialogue. Then I write: A couple holds hands as they walk by a bank, obviously in love - followed by 5 pages detailing a bank robbery. Hey - I included love right there in the opening. Nailed it,

Where you may think that restriction is unfair to some writers it's also unfair to writers who spent days thinking what the fok am I'm going to come up with that has a weather theme to it??

All that being said, I'm going to consider all scripts, even those that I feel didn't meet the theme (well, there was one where I'm not). But if there are two equally well written scripts, I am going to give the nod to the one that most closely followed the theme. That's just me. Being open minded I am not opposed to anyone else using their own criteria.

Enjoying what I've read so far. Heatwaves and killers seem to be a recurring theme. Having another break but I'll return tomorrow and read some more.

Just a suggestion, don't rush, we have all week. Some of these OWC entries try and do something a bit different that can easily be misunderstood if folks are skimming through.

Had an idea ready to go. Outlined and half written. Laptop shat itself on Thursday night so couldn't get it in. I'll try give some of these a read though.

Best of luck.

Quoted from eldave1

Don't think it's making your own criteria up, Dave. I'm pretty certain Pia said that the theme of weather didn't have to be all encompassing and central, but had to be significant in it's presence. Also, location didn't come into it at any point, regardless of the hemisphere you're in. The last point I think I saw you bring up was that the use of props for dialogue.

This one was interesting, and surprisingly loose imo, as it was brought up early doors but there were allowances made to using props, so long as you didn't take the piss. But discretion seems to go to the voter on what taking the piss is.

The central theme for me was the silence.

Anyway, I do actually agree that some of them aren't exactly appearing in stinking hot conditions, and also others seem to over utilise props.

In short, the only real thing that seemed nailed was no dialogue, the weather being stinking hot or freezing cold, and that's about it.

But again, a lot is going to come down to voter discretion.

Cam

Quoted from eldave1

I agree heat was stated, but so was summer. So far it’s been read as a OWC called HEAT, not SUMMER HEAT

So far, anything summer orientated seems forgotten at the expense of heat. Normally we are more tolerant and less definite.

I for one thing thought very hard about what defines a summer. What requires good weather, and what happens. I then forced myself to weave a story into it.

Alas I forgot to throw in a few temperature readings and extra layers of sunshine. My bad.

Every OWC the parameters have been discussed and debated, but I feel that so far this is more back and white than normal.

Quoted from Cameron

What Pia said was:

Quoted Text

I am not viewing these as having to be about the weather. I'm viewing them as whether the weather has a real impact on the story and characters.

I haven't found any yet that I personally thought violated the no-dialogue parameter.

Agree on voter discretion.

Sorry, might have been someone else, there is a sketchy one on the Richard Curtis ranty script re dialogue parameters.

Okay, so it's some effect, which is pretty light tbh, rather than pivotal. I really don't read this as also bang and centre of the piece, which is the impression I've been getting off some of the comments.

I was under the assumption that our characters had to deal with a heat wave/extreme cold.

Zack

Quoted from Reef Dreamer

Summer heat was fine by me. For example, one of scripts I liked dealt with a pregnancy unrelated to the weather. But the setting was on a hot beach, their behavior (skinny dipping, drinking) certainly revolved around the heat. It wasn't cataclysmic heat and none of the consequences had anything to do with heat - but to me, it met the parameters - no issues in that regard.

By way of comparison, one script I read made one mention of weather - "in the warm sunshine" That simply was not enough for me.

I suppose the good news is that - at least for me - all of the ones that I would recommend have no real issue with the parameters. i.e., even though I'm blowing a lot out my arse, at the end of the day it looks like it will have nothing to do with my ratings anyway.

OK, just to jump in here on the heat/cold aspect, even though Dave has been championing that the heat/cold play an important part of the script...or a more important part, I think his last example is a good one, and it's really how I viewed this parameter.

There are certain things that you can do in Summer heat that you can't or won't do in Winter cold.  As long as that comes into play, I see no problem.

I actually haven't commented on this aspect at all (I don't think), other than 1 script I actually really enjoyed, in which it was stated that it was 20 degrees C/68 degrees F.  This temperature is neither Summer hot or Winter cold, so it seemed odd.  I'm not going to downgrade this particular script because based on what went on in the script, it almost seemed to me like the writer made a mistake on the temperature.

It's funny, because the thought going in was that reading no dialogue scripts of a 6 page max would be very quick and easy, yet the majority of these read like they're 12+ pages and can really be a slog.  Only a small few read quick and easy.

I have about 9 or 10 more to go.  Hopefully, the reads increase, as is usually the case,  it's the usual suspects who seem to be doing all the reviewing.

Not In this time; couldn't get any angle and possibly it indeed also is the heat that played a part. It simply stopped raining for weeks now, perhaps more than a month, I cannot even remember, with an average of 35 something C° which feels like 45 in the concrete jungle I live in.

However I think I'm going to contribute with some reads, so in this case I'm In again. Lots of good titles for my taste. My favorites are:
Riot Time Knock Off
Beach Of Intentions

Will definitely check some out. Good luck

Quoted from Dreamscale

Hopefully, the reads increase, as is usually the case, it's the usual suspects who seem to be doing all the reviewing.

I've definitely been slackin'. Sorry guys. My little nephews have been keepin' me busy. Hard to read when a two and three year old are constantly yankin' on me. Lol

I'll be reading and posting as soon as I get a chance.

Zack

Random thought. Summer in the City would have the basis for a good Zombie short:

Hot town, summer in the city
Back of my neck getting dirty and gritty
Been down, isn't it a pity
Doesn't seem to be a shadow in the city
All around, people looking half dead
Walking on the sidewalk, hotter than a match head

After this post I will leave this debate. I agree that nothing will change.

My points are;

1] I am angry with myself for not pimping up the heat - easily done. But guess what? It would have made no difference to story, or arc, or depth, or suspense etc etc ...

2] I have not come across such strictly held parameters before - they seem to be applied with more zeal than normal. I don’t have the experience of others, but I have been involved with many OWC’s going back seven years and don’t feel I have seen this ‘black and white’ element before.

3] the aspect of summer, for my location, seems ignored. I accept I made this more of the criteria than pure heat, but it is part of the criteria.

I enjoyed writing again, I enjoy the reading. The rest....

Now back to reading. It is a privilege to be able to take part.

Cheers all

Ps if anyone feels I have been unfair in a review, please feel free to challenge me. We all do that late night review where we haven’t always been fair, me included.

Bill, as you know, I've been here a long time as well and I've seen many OWCs come and go. It has definitely evolved over the years. In the beginning, it was more about having fun than anything else. The quality of the scripts have definitely got better in the last few years. The writers are better and they take this VERY seriously. I think that's why you see people being sticklers for the challenge "rules". To me, it's still about having fun and maybe learning something new. Good to see you take part. :)

Having read some of the other scripts and the comments on my own, I wish I had come up with a different idea that more closely embraced the elements of the challenge in a smart way. As is, I skimmed the challenge while out late one night and came up with an idea quickly then stuck with it trying to make it work instead of taking the time be more clever.

I do like having the shorter page length this time around cause it makes the strong scripts go quickly and if one isn't jelling I know I'm not missing much if I bow out early.

Read a handful this morning and although there's good ones, I'm still waiting to be wowed.

Pia

i so appreciate all your work. And don's. i have long maintained it is a privilege to be here.

thank you for running this. i understand it involves work and sacrifice.

but...

Quoted from Grandma Bear

it's still about having fun :)

clearly, not everyone shares that.

shame.

thanks again

Quoted from Reef Dreamer

clearly, not everyone shares that.

shame.

Who are you referring to, Bill? Who's not having fun? Did I miss something, somewhere?

Quoted from Dreamscale

Who are you referring to, Bill? Who's not having fun? Did I miss something, somewhere?

Had the same question. There's a rock in that snowball

Quoted from Dreamscale

Who are you referring to, Bill? Who's not having fun? Did I miss something, somewhere?

i just need to chill-out. I've said enough above - alas.

time to read one more tonight

Quoted from Dreamscale

Who are you referring to, Bill? Who's not having fun? Did I miss something, somewhere?

Fun?? I just read a script that told me if I steal a baby from an addict it’ll fix my relationships and addiction problems...I’m farking loving this!!

Cheer up Bill, I just had a particularly bad review too but it’s really all shits and giggles. And besides, we all have our moments of glory and moments of not so great stuff, swings and roundabouts really.

Hope you’re okay,

Cam

Quoted from Cameron

All is fine. i'm annoyed, but it will pass. I'm not the first.

i've said enough.

However, your quote reminded me i bought a card recently which, made me laugh, cos it said

'its all shits and giggles, until someone giggles and shits ' :-)

Time for my bed, back to reading tomorrow

Quoted from Reef Dreamer

However, your quote reminded me i bought a card recently which, made me laugh, cos it said

'its all shits and giggles, until someone giggles and shits ' :-)

Time for my bed, back to reading tomorrow

Dude - I literally just got given the exact same card for my birthday! And I haven't even read all of this thread but people can't help getting emotional or annoyed when they put their writing out their. You just have to hope for more giggles than shits.

I'm watching my script get shit on, but once I jump on my ass blaster 5000 it takes all the sadness away and the feeling in my arse ;D

Quoted from irish eyes

I'm watching my script get shit on, but once I jump on my ass blaster 5000 it takes all the sadness away and the feeling in my arse ;D

;D ;D ;D ;D

I just purchased the brand new, Arse Blaster 7500, and I have to say, I really am enjoying it. I highly recommend it and implore all you arseholes to go buy one for your own arses!

Wow The Arse blaster 7500!
Is that the one with the built-in Bluetooth and taint tickler?

Quoted from irish eyes

Wow The Arse blaster 7500!
Is that the one with the built-in Bluetooth and taint tickler?

I don't need the bluetooth feature, and haven't found the taint tickler...yet. But, damn, it's great for a big old arse like mine!!

Wow...very sad that 2 days after all scripts were posted, half of them have 7 or less comments on.

I don't care who wants to bitch about this comment, but it's just sad to me.

Personally, I have 6 I haven't looked at yet. And I know several peeps have done a yeoman's job on both reads and the level of feedback, but most of the feedback is very minimal and it's quite obvious, many of the writers have read none or very few.

C'mon, peeps!! C'mon, Pia! It's your challenge...you should read and comment on ever single script, IMO, at least.

End rant...

Quoted from irish eyes

I'm watching my script get shit on, but once I jump on my ass blaster 5000 it takes all the sadness away and the feeling in my arse ;D

Yep, same here.

This was my first attempt at a no dialogue script as well as being my first script submitted this year with the last one being my October OWC entry.

This challenge has shown me that I need to get my ass in gear and be more productive if I want to achieve anything.

Jeff, not everyone has the free time you do. I'm sure people will get to reading as soon as they can. I've only read a few, but don't think I won't be reading more in the coming days. Also, some people like to spread it out a bit so they don't get burnt out.

And is Pia really expected to read and review ALL of them? I'd say that since she's the one who put this whole thing together, she should have the luxury of reading and reviewing the ones that catch her eye. Just my opinion, of course. I wish I could power through them as fast as you can, Dude.

Zack

Jeff, I didn't enter. Why should I have to read every script? Do you know how hard it is just to try to read all the comments and make sure there's no shit going on somewhere? :-/

Quoted from Zack

Bro, it's not about having free time..it's about making the time if you enter. Each to own, but I figure the "busy" peeps would have more free time on the weekend, as opposed to the business week, where most of us have to work 8+hours each day, plus commute time, getting ready for work time, and time with family.

Maybe I'm just dead on wrong, but 6 maximum page scripts are pretty fucking easy to get through, and based on the posts of most, that may add an extra minute or 2.

Carry on, everyone. I'll crawl back into my pool, as my dinner simmers away.

I work weekends. And I'm pulling double duty by watching my two young nephews when I'm off. Not making excuses. I'll have plenty of time to read some and review in the next couple of days.

Zack

There's always plenty of time to review. Jeff's just a lil' excited and wants everyone to the party at the same time.

Quoted from Grandma Bear

Jeff, I didn't enter. Why should I have to read every script? Do you know how hard it is just to try to read all the comments and make sure there's no shit going on somewhere? :-/

Pia, it's your challenge! Up to you how you handle that, but I know for a fact, when I hosted an OWC, and didn't enter, I read every script, just out of the spirit.

Up to you, my friend. No meanness intended. ;D ;D ;D

Quoted from Dreamscale

Yeah, just a guilt trip instead. ::)

Quoted from Grandma Bear

Jeff, I didn't enter. Why should I have to read every script? Do you know how hard it is just to try to read all the comments and make sure there's no shit going on somewhere? :-/

Not to alarm you, but there were shits and giggles going on earlier in this thread,

Quoted from Dreamscale

Wow...very sad that 2 days after all scripts were posted, half of them half 7 or less comments on.

I don't care who wants to bitch about this comment, but it's just sad to me.

Personally, I have 6 I haven't looked at yet. And I know several peeps have done a yeoman's job on both reads and the level of feedback, but most of the feedback is very minimal and it's quite obvious, many of the writers have read none or very few.

C'mon, peeps!! C'mon, Pia! It's your challenge...you should read and comment on ever single script, IMO, at least.

End rant...

Jeff:

Agree with you on all participants should read. But it is early yet. I pretty confidant each script will have around 20 comments, especially given that they're only six pages.

Disagree on Pia. If I ran one of these I would read Zero scripts. a)it's already a pain in the ass to run them, b) I would not enter and, c) may have to be an arbiter on an issue and would prefer not to have the script before making a decision.

I'm not going to be guilted into anything. I've read many scripts from other challenges even though I didn't enter or run them.

I've read six so far. One I didn't comment on because I know who wrote it, but I might later on. It's only been one f'n day!!!!! >:(

Quoted from Grandma Bear

Not trying to guilt you or piss you off, Pia. Just saying how I see things...and do things.

Shorry!!!

Quoted from eldave1

Disagree on Pia. If I ran one of these I would read Zero scripts. a)it's already a pain in the ass to run them, b) I would not enter and, c) may have to be an arbiter on an issue and would prefer not to have the script before making a decision.

Same thought process I go by when doing these. On all three accounts.

In regards to voting, is there a chance I could get the ballot today? I'm going fishing in the boonies starting tomorrow (and why I read almost all the entries this weekend - phew!) and don't want to rely on cell coverage. I'd love to get my votes counted!

This seems to have gone off at a very odd angle criticism wise. Why on earth should the person running the thing have to review scripts?? I'm at a loss, it's never happened while I've been entering so fair play for having the time to comment at all!!!!

Enjoying this one btw, the last one was fun but it's nice to have the rapid fire of some real shorties again.

Quoted from JEStaats

Send Don a pm. He's the one that sends those out. :)

Quoted from Cameron

Agree - thought these were all pretty easy reads.

Quoted from Cameron

Why on Earth should the person running the thing have to review scripts?  Nobody "has to" do anything, obviously.

Why should they?  Or better yet, why would they?  Well, because it's their challenge.  They came up with the parameters.   Who knows better what they intended than the person who set down the challenge?

It comes down to "being a part of the challenge", and being a part, to me at least, means reading, or at least looking at every single entry, and providing some kind of commentary on every script.

It just drives me literally crazy how peeps think they can read a few scripts and pick a winner.  Makes zero sense.

We have 28 entries here, coming from (most likely) at least 25 different writers.  How can someone read 4 or 5 scripts and say, "this one was my favorite", when they have literally no idea what the vast majority of entries even looked like?

Oh well, it is what it is.  Each to their own, I guess.

Almost done with the reads. Still need to add some comments and there are several that I want to re-read. Will get to that this week.

Twas fascinating to see how all the writers handled the no dialogue constraint. I think that aspect also provides the advantage of making us better writers - I know I learned some things for sure.

As it turns out, the heat/summer heat/cold debate isn't really going to effect my vote.

I thought 18 pretty much nailed the theme.

I thought 5 kind of got it - the link was a bit tenuous. But okay.

I thought 5 mostly missed the parameters with one completely missing.

However, as it turns out, not really going to effect my vote ultimately. The scripts I loved/liked all hit the mark.

Quoted from Dreamscale

Need to separate the issues.

- You're just wrong on the challenge coordinator needing to read the scripts. They are a non-entrant. Do you think all non-entrants should read and comment? Or just the non-entrants who are already doing extra work by coordinating the thing? I don't read all the scripts in OWCs that I don't enter - in fact, in the last one (didn't enter) I didn't comment on any of them and I feel fine about that.

- On entrants. Yes, all entrants should strive to read and comment on as many scripts as possible. We pretty much all agree on that ideal. It's the Quid Pro Quo nature of the challenge. It's pretty much stated up front in every challenge. But, I'm not even sure that has a real impact as most of these challenges use an average scoring system anyway (i.e., vs. a total of all votes) and the scoring is set up in a way where you are picking a winner. You're rating a script. And most importantly, I can't really remember an instance where I thought the SS collective got it wrong. i.e., somehow it always seems to work out in the wash anyway.

I've always looked at it more as you should review and comment on other people's scripts because they are reviewing and commenting on yours - reciprocity - rather than something that is needed to protect the integrity of a vote.

That's my own.

Quoted from eldave1

No, Dave, I am not "just wrong". That's your opinion. I do not share it.

I've run these before and I've read the entries, because it was my challenge, so of course I'm going to participate, even though I can'r participate by entering, because it wouldn't be fair.

If I don't enter a particular OWC, that's my choice and then, of course I'm not expected to read and provide feedback.

Quoted from Dreamscale

On the "your wrong thing" - concur with your sentiment. I hate when people start out that way. Should simply be - I disagree.

On the issue. I would only ask you to examine your standard/premise. It appears to be two-fold:

1, I did - so they should. Which just ends the debate. On the negative side it's akin to saying, I smoke, so they should. On the positive side, it's akin to saying I donated a kidney, so they should. i.e., it's not really an argument, it's just my standards and behavior should be copied.

2. All participants should read and comment and the person administering the challenge is a participant. Okay - this is where we really disagree. I do not view them as a participant. I view them as an administrator.

So, guess we'l agree to disagree.

I fear the anger bunnies have been unleashed. Does anyone have some anger myxomatosis?? The obvious solution...

Quoted from CameronD

Funny.

No worries. I'm as cool as a cucumber, mate as I suppose Jeff is as well. We're just ruminating.

Quoted from Cameron

I fear the anger bunnies have been unleashed. Does anyone have some anger myxomatosis?? The obvious solution...

I'm not going down that rabbit hole.

Bunny Nazi!

Quoted from Cameron

I fear the anger bunnies have been unleashed. Does anyone have some anger myxomatosis?? The obvious solution...

A nice, relaxing ride on the Ass Blaster 4000 always chills me right the fuck out. :)

Zack

Quoted from eldave1

I'm not going down that rabbit hole.

Bunny Nazi!

Hahaha, and what we need to fix a bunny nazi problem is a countryside alliance between an overweight cigar chomping deer, a rather psychotic squirrel who likes the colour red, and a woodpecker who arrived a few years late but flew in to save the day...I'm not sure that works

No anger here, either.

Like Zack, I just rode my new Arse Blaster 7500 and, boy, do I feel better! ;D ;D ;D

Actually, I just got back from the Dentist, and was told I broke a crown...another $1,000 down the shitter.

Quoted from Dreamscale

Dental prices are criminal!

Quoted from eldave1

Dental prices are criminal!

Sad thing is that I just got done paying about $12,000 in Dental costs, and just got Dental insurance, but wouldn't you know it, I have a 1 year waiting period on crowns and the like.

FUCK!!!!!

Quoted from Dreamscale

Sad thing is that I just got done paying about $12,000 in Dental costs, and just got Dental insurance, but wouldn't you know it, I have a 1 year waiting period on crowns and the like.

FUCK!!!!!

I actually started my own Dental/Abortion clinic in my basement. One year in and I'm still looking for my first customer. Come on over, Jeff. I'll give you a Hell of a discount.

And I've got the Ass Blaster 4000 in the waiting room. :D

Zack

Quoted from Dreamscale

Sad thing is that I just got done paying about $12,000 in Dental costs, and just got Dental insurance, but wouldn't you know it, I have a 1 year waiting period on crowns and the like.

FUCK!!!!!

Ugh

Tell ya what, after Jeff’s review of my script I’d like to attach a giant spiked dildo to his Arseblaster! ;D ;D ;D

39 degree C for tomorrow. And it's a windless 50 here in this world of concrete in Western Germany. Nobody answers me where Dustin is, nobody replies to my favorite titles? No nothing, just excuses that this challenge wasn't about heat or cold (<I added irony here). Take the mug (I added irony here as well). Provoking? Always

What's going on? Good challenge?

Quoted from SAC

Tell ya what, after Jeff’s review of my script I’d like to attach a giant spiked dildo to his Arseblaster! ;D ;D ;D

;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

Sorry, Steve. Not intentional.

Quoted from PrussianMosby

39 in Germany - wow, that's new. Unless you mean under direct sun. If it's not in shade it doesn't count in Baku.

About Dustin - I thought you were the only one who could check, because you follow him on that chess site, no?

Quoted from Dreamscale

;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

Sorry, Steve. Not intentional.

All good. Just having a bit of fun. Besides, you probably already have a giant spiked dildo anyway.

Quoted from SAC

All good. Just having a bit of fun. Besides, you probably already have a giant spiked dildo anyway.

Well...actually, I have about 6 now, since I'm an Amazon Prime member and they were delivered in 1 day. But, very soon, I'll have zero, as these are all being shipped out to the arseholes who gave me negative feedback on my entry.

Don't worry, you haven't posted on mine yet.

Quoted from khamanna

About Dustin - I thought you were the only one who could check, because you follow him on that chess site, no?

No, we do not have any contact. From my view, he might have become an engaged writer, then perhaps he might have problems.

If the later, then for sure I want to know. He never ignored me. Probably I will contact him via his website.

Quoted from PrussianMosby

Wow! That's hotter than Florida! :o

As far as Dustin goes, I believe he's being paid to write at the moment.

Quoted from Grandma Bear

As far as Dustin goes, I believe he's being paid to write at the moment.

Wait... getting paid to write is a thing?!

Quoted from FrankM

Wait... getting paid to write is a thing?!

Can confirm. We both were working the same gig. :) But for me at least, it ended early in June. He may still be working it or doing other things however. I'm not sure.

I'm friends with Dustin on FB and he has been quiet for a while but last I heard he was getting paid for several writing gigs. Good luck to him, hope it works out.

I’ve reviewed half - and read nearly all - and my notes show that maybe only 3 or 4 have stories impacted directly by the weather (this is my set criteria and, like Dave, I’m sticking to it! It will have no relevance to whether (pun intended lol) I think the story is good or the writing is ok; that will be dealt with separately.

Also there seems to be disparity with the reviews - all the scripts should have at least 10 reviews by now and some haven’t lol

Rant over and continue on peeps 😂

Yeah, very, very sad indeed. 2 of the better scripts have the least amount of feedback, while some of the worst have the most.

Makes ZERO sense!!!!

Give it time.

It often starts out like this.

It's only been two days... ::)

Besides, the voting is not voting for your favorite. It's giving the scripts you read a Poor, Fair, Good, Very Good or Excellent. That way the number of votes matters less since it will be an average of the votes given.

Me personally, I usually pick the scripts with the fewest reads to read, but today, I was too pissed off to read anything. :-/

Quoted from LC

Give it time.

It often starts out like this.

Yep - I expect that we will end up somewhere in the 16 to 18 range for most scripts

Quoted from Grandma Bear

2 days? Uh...it's been 3 days, Pia.

Sorry you're so pissed off. Not my intent at all. If it's no big deal to you about your stance here, there's absolutely no reason to be pissed off with other peeps' opinions.

Again...my apologies...

I pick which ones I read based off the titles and loglines. :) Gotta draw me in.

Zack

Quoted from Dreamscale

The scripts were posted around noon Saturday, so by noon Monday it was about 48hrs...

Yes, I was pissed off today and I will never again offer to run one of these OWCs. The fun has been totally drained from it and there's always a wet blanket putting a damper on things nowadays.

Try to have fun guys. That is the intention of these OWCs after all.

Quoted from Grandma Bear

:( I hope one day you reconsider running a new OWC. I know most of us appreciate your efforts very much.

Zack

Yeah, seriously, Pia. You run a great challenge. You even got the laziest writer I know to drag himself away from the TV and write a script! ;D And I, for one, am having fun with this. It's been nice to see a proper OWC round here. I like the bickering, the good natured ribbing and texting with friend's over our scripts getting shit on! Like you said, it's all in fun.

As far as my reading goes, I usually start from the bottom, or the one with the least reads, and work my way up.

Quoted from Sarah

You even got the laziest writer I know to drag himself away from the TV and write a script!

Quoted from Grandma Bear

I wouldn't worry, Pia. This has been a fun one, some folkles do their usual stuff and create a bit of chaos, but it's part of the experience now. A person who hasn't been around in a while privately told me to just ignore it, sounds lame but it works.

Personally speaking, I reckon this has been the strongest set of scripts for a while. I've got about 4/5 down as properly good, and a good chunk at good, and the variety is keeping me going through the whole 28.

I think the level of work may have something to do with some of the old masters appearing, great to see you all again, lads and ladettes alike.

Quoted from Dreamscale

Yeah, very, very sad indeed. 2 of the better scripts have the least amount of feedback, while some of the worst have the most.

Makes ZERO sense!!!!

Yes, i’ve noticed poor scripts getting more feedback. But to be fair they need it more. As long as the review gives even one bit of useful advice about improving writing or story.

Pia

Sorry to hear you felt so bad, my apologies if I added to this.

As I have said before, I appreciate these chances so much, and understand this is a voluntary thing. It is a privilege to have this opportunity free of charge. Remember movie poet - gone.

Enjoy these, and respect them, whilst it lasts.

So, thanks for the chance. Thanks for an interesting, open challenge. Sorry I boobed on the heat, but I really did try on the summer aspect. So much so...

...I entered two scripts. At least one of them won’t come last place ::) ::) ::)

Quoted from stevie

It is a shame this divide has happened. I feel for Pia who has worked hard.

All I can say is that I worked really hard to conjure a summer script, I didn’t take anything for granted, and in the process I forgot the heat had to play a larger part.

I have quite a few to finish. All I can do is review them for what they are. One I read the other day had heat and no summer. Not a puff of summer in the sky. Didn’t matter. Great story. Well done writer.

Now back to the real business of reviewing.

There's arguments in every OWC, I really don't know why, but there is. This is supposed to be fun and a challenge to help writers be creative under constrained conditions.

Pia - thanks for running this. I love taking part in these, even when my script is ripped to shreds, and I do appreciate anyone who takes the time and effort to run one of these.

I can't say I've worked hard as in physically hard, lol. It's time consuming though to try to keep up with all the posts, answer PMs and that sort of thing. Then hear that Jeff thinks I should read and comment on all the scripts too in one week's time, just pissed me off. I didn't feel bad. I was angry. But, fear not, Jeff and I have argued many many times. Not here, but on Skype or even on the phone. I'm sure we will again. One thing I know about Jeff is that he will not change his mind. Ever!

So, it's all good. I'll straighten him out next time we talk. ;D

There's that Pia spirit.

Nothin's ever gonna keep you down, you're the best... around. =)

Hi all. I participated in the challenge so will be reading and sharing my thoughts on the scripts entered. Got a week off work so no excuses, just wanted to get a couple of days fishing in while the weather was good. Turns out I should have just stayed home but oh well.

I've already read a few but will get through the bulk of them in the next couple of days. Good luck to all. Hadn't written anything in a while and this challenge really spurred me on to do so so thanks for that.

hi all

These OWC's are free - let us remember, or they disappear

So, why don't we say what we do enjoy, or are surprised by, or...importantly, what we have learnt?

i feel we owe it to Pia (thank you Pia and Don) to express what we get out of these OWC, once our (inc mine) ego's have calmed down from the inevitable tough stuff

it goes beyond what we think of the scripts.

may i lead...

* not judging a script by the writing alone - i feel bad about this one because i do, but i have just enjoyed a script with real potential, that one for reason or another, i didn't ignore just because it was dense. i am pleased i did

* simple can be beautiful - my scripts always struggle with too many complications - a script in this OWC has reminded me on simplicity - thank you for that

i could do others, but i wanted to hear other writers experiences, like how you reacted etc

we are writers after all

anybody?

Hey Reefie, lad,

Obvious thanks to Don and Pia, as per usual, you guys rock. I’ll go next.

The OWC’s that have gone before have undoubtably helped my work in so many different ways. The reviewing is where I get most of my formatting tips from, as for whatever reason I seem good at coming up with ideas, and used to be bad at getting them down on the page and across to the reader. The variety is so vast across the pieces that you pick up different bits on how to treat works especially related to genre, as we all have our little favourite areas and don’t necessarily know how to move into other spots.

On that note, being forced out of your comfort zone and made to write in genres you don’t like/have no experience with, this is absolutely critical to learning. I know this is an open genre this time, but some of the past challenges where we’ve been forced away from comedy (my fave) are where I’ve learned the most.

The final thing, the feedback. You obviously grow a thick skin reading some of the comments (I work in architecture so had to get one of those anyway), but there’s always some brilliant comments that enhance your work. Recently folk like a Chris Bodily doing his deep dive stuff really help on nitpicking and spotting things you were never going to, and others have really altered the way I approach a blank page at the start of something.

The OWC’s have basically been essential to my learning, and have given me the confidence to push on and bring ideas beyond the short form. Long may they continue.

Cam x

I enjoy the OWC's very much!

I do not enjoy the fact that so many choose to enter and read none or a few, and then feel they still can vote (how could 1 seriously vote after reading 4 or 5 out of 30 scripts?).

The feedback to me is of a huge varying degree of very good to downright horrible, and those that continually praise very poor scripts is a complete head scratcher to me...I honestly just don't get it.

My heartfelt thanks always go out to The Don and whoever runs one of these, as I know what it takes to be the Mod, watch out for fights, etc, and Don posting all these so fast is downright amazing.

Another thing I just don't understand is how some peeps continually get so prissy and upset about negative feedback...or not meeting the challenge parameters. IMO, it's very easy to know when you've written a good script or a real clunker, and if it's the latter, do you really want peeps blowing smoke up your arse? Why? I don't get it.

Quoted from Reef Dreamer

I like the challenge because it gets me to write shorts - something I don't favor. Left to my own devices, I would have never written one. I now have 14 regular length shorts, two animated shorts and three, one page shorts in the coffer. All but two of those scripts were a direct result of OWCs.

It provides a lesson in subjectivity. One peep will hate a script, another one will love it. Both of their opinions will be valid.

I learn stuff.

Quoted from Dreamscale

I enjoy the OWC's very much!

The feedback to me is of a huge varying degree of very good to downright horrible, and those that continually praise very poor scripts is a complete head scratcher to me...I honestly just don't get it.

Jeff - got to remember that peeps have different perspectives on quality. There were scripts I loved that others hated and vice versa. Sure the same was true for you.

We all have different senses of story and we all have different standards for screenwriting. e.g., you strongly dislike unfilmables and asides. I think they can play a very important part in story telling, etc. etc. So where you would see a problem, I would see a gem - and vice versa. The differences in opinion on scripts as not a failure of a one reviewer over another - there just differences.

I super love the OWCs. This is where it all started for me. Not only are they FREE but we get so much GREAT feedback and I have sold both shorts and features that were find right here on this site. One of the features I begun here for a 7WC.

I think sometimes we put so much into things like grammar and peoples' writing styles and sometimes we forego story... missing a really great story in the process of discounting someone's work.

I think that the feedback that is most helpful to me... is what could make the story BETTER ... does this feel like part of a BIGGER project. Most of my shorts nowadays are trial runs for possible features I'd like to write in the future... the comments I have gotten thru these owcs.. has directly effected which stories I go on to turn into features and which ones live in my heart .. and in SS forever more. :)

I love this challenge. I look forward to reading the rest of the entries. Tomorrow is a great reading day for me ... so hope to knock about ten out! :)

Love the short page count. Love the no dialogue. Love the challenge because it makes us get out of our box!

GREAT job to Pia and to Don on putting this challenge together. I really appreciate both of you! :)

Quoted from eldave1

Dave, you're going to get 2 quotes and responses here!   ;D ;D

I agree with you 100%!  I only write shorts for OWC's, and I'm very happy I have, as all but maybe 2, I really enjoy, for different reasons (yes, BIG OLD PISSERS included!).

Without the OWC, I would never write a short.  I did write a 20 page shortish once for a series, many years ago, and I love that one too, and it was the OWC's that helped me write that.

OK, I have burgers I have to grill, so you'll have to wait for my reply to your next quote, but I'll say up front, I hear ya, brother!

Quoted from Dreamscale

I did write a 20 page shortish once for a series

You're not going all the way back to Soulshadows, are you?

Quoted from Mr. Blonde

You're not going all the way back to Soulshadows, are you?

I LOVED the Soulshadows series!!!

Now with Jordan sort of maybe back'ish... :)

I love these OWC's and always have. Giving me a theme, some constraints and a deadline is the best way to get me to work. Left to my own devices, allowed to just come up with 'anything' and I'm lost, staring at a blank page. These really inspire me.

I also like to come up with different things, something new that may not have been tried before. The frustrating thing when you try something different is you get a lot of 'I don't get it' or "I don't think others will get it" type responses. I think maybe this is one reason we see so many similar movies and TV shows. Writers inevitably give up trying something new or different and write the familiar, make it simpler so that the folks who read it 'get it' and give it the green light.

These OWC's allow me to try something different and to attempt to balance new/different with getting the reader to understand it - as I agree, it is a fine balance between art and writing lean, easy to read visual scripts. Sometimes in the OWC I will succeed and most will get it, sometimes I utterly fail like I have in this one. However, each is a priceless learning experience and helps me to grow as a creative storyteller as well as a writer.

Some cool feedback there

I also like the ‘out of our comfort zone’ challenges. An early one for me was a Gothic horror - didn’t even know it existed.

I pretty much gave up writing for the past two years, which shows, so it is things like this that help me dust down the creative grey cells. I really enjoyed the writing and working through a story.

The feedback can always be a bit hit or miss, mine included, especially when later at night (apologies to those who got those reviews) but put together you can get a lot out of it, especially when you have a script that be taken further.

If the annual Halloween OWC is run I will endeavour to take part.

OK, Dave, here's the 2nd quote I mentioned last night. The burgers got the best of me!

Quoted from eldave1

Jeff - got to remember that peeps have different perspectives on quality. There were scripts I loved that others hated and vice versa. Sure the same was true for you.

Well, yeah...exactly what I've said over and over, but quality should be universal - one may not like a certain something, but if it's quality, they should respect that.  And, if it's not quality, that is pretty obvious, but too many peeps here (who post downright idiotic feedback and/or punish a quality script for 1 thing or another while not even getting or seeing the quality) don't get that.

I mean, let's be serious...I could (and would love to) call out several idiots here who have praised obviously very poor scripts.  Some go so far as to say, "I have absolutely no idea what is going on here but I really enjoyed the read."  Really?

Other quote "rules" they don't even understand over and over and completely miss the real reason something is incorrect.  They just don't get it, but they think they do...basically, they're clueless and that's a dangerous reviewer.

Quoted from eldave1

We all have different senses of story and we all have different standards for screenwriting. e.g., you strongly dislike unfilmables and asides. I think they can play a very important part in story telling, etc. etc. So where you would see a problem, I would see a gem - and vice versa. The differences in opinion on scripts as not a failure of a one reviewer over another - there just differences.

Totally agree about story being good/bad/nonexistent/etc. is completely a personal opinion, and have said this over and over and over (actually, just recently on this very same thread, but the dolt I was saying it to, just couldn't wrap his head around it).

As to "things" like asides and unfilmables, yeah, it's a personal preference, but the real problem with SS writers using them, is that they don't understand what's right or wrong with using them, and when to and when not to. Hell, many don't even know they're writing an aside or unfilmable!

I believe most differences of opinions of reviewers are truly "failures" of some reviewers, because some reviewers are clueless or downright idiots. And I do honestly mean exactly that and will stand by it.

Quoted from Mr. Blonde

You're not going all the way back to Soulshadows, are you?

I sure am!!!!! ;D ;D ;D

I get what Jeff is saying. I’d like to think I’m a decent writer, and that my taste in scripts matter. I know a good story when I see it. I know good writing when I see it. Personally, there are scripts I read that others praise and I’m like “wtf are they thinking? This sucked!” So, perhaps my opinion, or Jeff’s, carries more weight than others who have only been writing for a few months.

Or maybe it doesn’t.

Usually when I see reviews that leave me scratching my head I don’t feel it’s my duty to call it out. I’m the end, I may not respect the other persons opinion, but my review, and others, should tell the writer that somethings not working with their script. If you have two glowing reviews and a dozen bad ones, that should be clue enough.

I know of a few writers/reviewers that love almost everything I write. Even the bad stuff. I just kinda laugh and I’m like no way in hell us this good. So if you get a good review but the rest are bad then chances are it needs some work. Far be it from me to call anyone out on it. But that doesn’t mean Jeff, or anyone else, shouldn’t. As long as you’re respectful.

Steven, you're spot on.

You know damn well when you've written a good script or a bad one and when you know it sucks arse, you know what kind of reviews you should be getting.

Story and humor, though are subjective and they always will be.

There are very, very few universally good stories...and by very, very few, I'm referring to the percentage of all stories, not the actual number.

I've read them all now. There's quite a few I'm going to mark down as excellent and (for me) there's no clear winner, instead there's several which really stand out.

In general, folks did a lot better than my own entry and I'm very impressed. Well done!

Quoted from Dreamscale

OK, Dave, here's the 2nd quote I mentioned last night.  The burgers got the best of me!

Well, yeah...exactly what I've said over and over, but quality should be universal - one may not like a certain something, but if it's quality, they should respect that.  And, if it's not quality, that is pretty obvious, but too many peeps here (who post downright idiotic feedback and/or punish a quality script for 1 thing or another while not even getting or seeing the quality) don't get that.

I mean, let's be serious...I could (and would love to) call out several idiots here who have praised obviously very poor scripts.  Some go so far as to say, "I have absolutely no idea what is going on here but I really enjoyed the read."  Really?

Other quote "rules" they don't even understand over and over and completely miss the real reason something is incorrect.  They just don't get it, but they think they do...basically, they're clueless and that's a dangerous reviewer.

Totally agree about story being good/bad/nonexistent/etc. is completely a personal opinion, and have said this over and over and over (actually, just recently on this very same thread, but the dolt I was saying it to, just couldn't wrap his head around it).

As to "things" like asides and unfilmables, yeah, it's a personal preference, but the real problem with SS writers using them, is that they don't understand what's right or wrong with using them, and when to and when not to.  Hell, many don't even know they're writing an aside or unfilmable!

I believe most differences of opinions of reviewers are truly "failures" of some reviewers, because some reviewers are clueless or downright idiots.  And I do honestly mean exactly that and will stand by it.

Quality is not universal, at least not the perception of it and it will never be.  Surely you thought Siskel and Ebert were both competent film critics - but most times one had a thumb up and one had a thumb down.

I hate Rap music, contemporary art, Picasso, etc. etc.  - others drool over the quality. Who's right? (rhetorical question - I am of course). Scripts and stories are no different. I'll see someone rave over a zombie script and I'm thinking - really? really? - it's the same foking story that's been told a thousand times.  The point being our perception of story has to impact all perspective on scripts. I mentioned it before, but one script in this OWC that I thought was deliciously paced others found dull.

I read the script for Moonlight - thought it was horrible!! Oh - it won best picture. I didn't care for A Quiet Place and thought the story was flawed. You loved it. i.e., when reading that script, we're going to start with different frameworks/perceptions.

Long winded way of saying there is no reason to expect that too otherwise solid reviewers will not come up with polar opposite reviews of a script because the perception of quality is not universal. That is what I see most often in the comments.

Secondly, all of the format, rules, style, etc is subservient to story.  The script that, at least based on the comments so far that is going to come out top in this challenge - you hated. IMO, it had a great story with a writer taking some chances on style. Some peeps loved the style, some didn't - but almost all peeps loved the story and found the script compelling. Conversely, it was pretty much in your trash bin.  I'm not using this as an example where I think you're wrong. I'm using it as an example to show that the perception of quality is not universal. When this script takes the challenge down despite the fact that you hated it, it ought to give you pause to think about whether your premise about quality is correct or not.

Peace.

Quoted from MarkRenshaw

I have a top 3 with no daylight between them. If I had to pick one, it'd be a difficult task.

Dave, I had a very detailed response typed up and I crashed and lost it all.

I hear what you're saying, and I guess we'll leave it at that.

I'm nearly through but I'm close enough there to form the opinion this has been the strongest OWC in a good while. When I saw 28 scripts appearing I kinda worried, but there's a good crop at the top and the rest ain't too shabby either. Nice to see so many of the old guard around too, I'm pretty certain the strength of the work is connected.

Quoted from Dreamscale

Dave, I had a very detailed response typed up and I crashed and lost it all.

I hear what you're saying, and I guess we'll leave it at that.

All cool

Some of you have way too much time on your hands. ::)

Quoted from ReneC

Some of you have way too much time on your hands. ::)

I was hoping to get in on a real, honest-to-goodness One Week Challenge, but the timing was awful. For me. The 25 of you who entered obviously are fine.

Eventually came up with an idea on Wednesday, but could not get a block of time together to actually write it.

Quoted from Dreamscale

As to "things" like asides and unfilmables, yeah, it's a personal preference, but the real problem with SS writers using them, is that they don't understand what's right or wrong with using them, and when to and when not to. Hell, many don't even know they're writing an aside or unfilmable!

There’s another side to the so-called ‘unfilmables’ argument. And that’s the fact that one line – that some class as unfilmable – can tell an actor so much more than what to do at that exact moment. Used well, they can give actors and directors information that affects the whole performance or style of a piece. But only when used well. And as you said, some beginner writers might not even know when they're writing a unfilmable. But decent writers should be able to tell the difference between something that's 'unfilmable' or the real problem which is something 'uninterpretable' onscreen.

Quoted from Anon

True, true!!!

OK, I'm done.

I bailed on six entries, which received scores of 0.

Eight received scores of 1.

Five received scores of 2.

Five got a 3.

Four received my high score of 4.

No scores of 5 awarded.

My votes are in. For me, it's very clearly down to 4 entries, but it looks like only 1 of those will be a contender, based on the feedback I'm seeing.

Great challenge, Pia. I didn't think I would like it, but it was fun.

Quoted from Anon

Exactly. And not just confined to actor and director, but in the first instance the reader, and the Producer giving the greenlight. Unfilmables belong in no dialogue scripts. A canny writer will use them to bridge the gap of no spoken words with information and emotion that builds depth of character and fleshes out story and theme.

Quoted from eldave1

I have a top 3 with no daylight between them....

Ooh, I like that line.

Aaaaaannnnnndddddd...results submitted,

Best of luck you bunch of beautiful so and so's. That was a good one, and judging by the scores I've just submitted it really was the strongest OWC in a while (obviously based on my own opinion, but I'm quite an average person so by the law of averages it should be correct).

Ta for the frights, giggles, dramatic slants and new ideas/techniques garnered from the scripts up here, oh and the reviews,

Cam

Quoted from LC

Exactly. If you search for the best movie character intros of all time in scripts, most go beyond telling you what they are wearing, their exact age or how they look, they tell you about the character.

More and more often I see in pro scripts introductions like, "He moves with the stocky, stiff-legged gait of a former athlete. His peppy, upbeat demeanor just barely masks a seething sense of insecurity and frustration." - Unfilmable yes, but lets you know a lot about this character in one sentence.

It's not just character descriptions as well. A good writer knows when to add the odd unfilmable sentence to emphasis a scene or action. It's a tough balance to find but owc entries should encourage a bit of artistic flair instead of just saying, "totally unfilmable."

Quoted from LC

See nail - hit it on the head.

A script is never getting to an actor until it gets by a reader - and several of them at that.

My criteria for unfilmables and asides is that if they enhanced my read, got me to turn the page - I'm all for them. Pretty much as simple as that. And I have no scientific data on this as I have not kept track, but I would bet Jeff's left testicle that the best scripts use them.

So many times I have read technically perfect scripts that just bore me to death. It's the ones that draw outside the lines that hold my interest the most. More often than not, at least to me, they are written by people who have removed the shackles of craftsmanship and decided to become artists.

From Fargo:

Quoted Text

Lester is the type of guy that apologizes when you step on his foot.

Would be crucified by techies - no, you must show us he's that type of guy. Don't ell us. I say tel me! Let me know the type of guy I'm dealing with so I can enjoy me read.

This from Inglorious Basterds:

Quoted Text

The French farmer sits down on the stump he was previously chopping
away at, pulls a handkerchief from his pocket, wipes sweat from his
face, and waits for the Nazi convoy to arrive. After living for a
year with the sword of Damocles suspended over his head, this may
very well be the end.

Would be crucified. To long - ended a sentence with a preposition - just say a Nazi convoy approaches - the last sentence is entirely unfilmable -

I loved it and loved the script. If I was a producer, it would move to the top of the pile primarily because it was a joy to read.

Of course you should generally avoid unfilmables and asides when they are used merely to provide backstory - but when they are used for tone, to create tension, to give us an insight - intrigue us - use them all you want.

Quoted from MarkRenshaw

Concur!

Quoted from eldave1

Concur!

Double concur. Flair and voice should be celebrated and encouraged. As long as it's any good ...

My votes are all in. Every script read and scored. It's been a trip and more time consuming than I though it might be. But honestly, I only took part because I thought the challenge a good one. So well done, Pia.

It was Pia's interesting challenge that made me write my first ever short.

Great examples Dave!

Ironically, something totally unfilmable IS Jeff’s left testicle. And the right one (shudders)

Quoted from stevie

... something totally unfilmable IS Jeff’s left testicle. And the right one (shudders)

I now have this image and I can’t get it out of my head...damn you. And that’s just the left one....

Quoted from stevie

Great examples Dave!

Ironically, something totally unfilmable IS Jeff’s left testicle. And the right one (shudders)

Thanks, Stevie - the Fargo one was actually part of Reeve's blog today - timely.

Still have 13 to read. Going to a friend's movie premier tonight... will get the rest read tomorrow at work. :)

GREAT job everybody!

Quoted from stevie

Great examples Dave!

Ironically, something totally unfilmable IS Jeff’s left testicle. And the right one (shudders)

You arse! Funny!

My left ball is bigger than my right one and both hang down nearly to my knees.

How's that for a visual, Bill? You like that? ;D ;D ;D

Word for today is 'exactly' , runner up word, 'concur'.

Isn't it lovely when we all agree. Rhetorical question.

Everyone should read:

http://scriptshadow.net

August 8 article - Fargo excerpt. Brilliant.

Like Dave said. ;)

that's exactly right. I concur.

Right out of the gate, you're spot on.

I have read half of the scripts and I'll read a few more tomorrow after I go see The Meg! :o

There were some scripts that IMHO were a little too prosy for a script, but I still feel the quality of the scripts were quite high. The OWCs have definitely evolved over the years.

Voting is due by midnight tomorrow, then a reveal shortly thereafter. Once that's over, you're just going to have to wait for the most popular OWC, the October one.

Cheers all! 8)

Well, that's it. I'm done, read em all. I apologize if my comments were short and sweet. I don't like getting technical--other people make up for that in spades anyway! I just try to go with a basic vibe. Did the story resonate with me or not, was it written well enough to achieve that? Stuff like that. But I read them all straight through, save for one, and I only bailed on the last half page.

Can't wait to see who wrote what, and find out what crazy-ass writers entered more than one script! ;D

Steve

I just saw The Meg. It was awesome. Jaws on steroids. You're REALLY gonna need a bigger boat. ;D Hell, you're gonna need the Titanic!

I have only seven more scripts to go. Please don't suck.

Done and voted. Four really stood out for me. The majority were just good, but that's what I expected with this OWC. It was a real challenge!

Thank you for an excellent OWC, Pia! It was amazing to see all the creativity on display with trying to meet the requirements this time around, and I think everyone who participated learned something from it, which is what I've always loved about the OWC.

I am running out of time. I have six left and I have a meeting tonight so I will not be home probably until AFTER the deadline for turning in votes... but I will read ALL of them.... tonight after I get back home.

Great job. Some really talented writers in here!

Quoted from Pale Yellow

Just make sure you vote 3 or 4 times before you leave for the meeting:)

Quoted from Pale Yellow

And...you didn't read mine. My feelings are very hurt, Dena. I'm going to have to get very schlammied, now. HA!! ;D ;D ;D

Quoted from Dreamscale

And...you didn't read mine. My feelings are very hurt, Dena. I'm going to have to get very schlammied, now. HA!! ;D ;D ;D

That’s such a large breadcrumb it might as well be a loaf

Quoted from Cameron

That’s such a large breadcrumb it might as well be a loaf

OOOPS!!  True, that.

Those who haven't voted yet, can now make sure they don't vote for mine!   ;D ;D ;D

No worries...I was actually going to out myself earlier yesterday, but decided it would be a weak move.

Cheers to all who entered.  Some good stuff here...and some garbage, but that's how it always is.

Anyone who hated my feedback on your script, and want to challenge it or have questions, PM me, or just do it on the thread after the reveal.

Sorry in advance to those that got scorched.

Voted. Very good quality over all. Thank you all who participated. 8)

Now you have to wait until October for the next one.

Now I'm going to have a beer!

Sorry, I lied... I will have way more than one! ;D

Done and submitted.

9 Excellent
3 Very good
5 Good
4 Fair
5 poor
1 DQ (The Burial for having an atrocious title page)

I'd say this month was a mixed bag as far as quality goes. Good luck to everybody.

Quoted from Dreamscale

And...you didn't read mine. My feelings are very hurt, Dena. I'm going to have to get very schlammied, now. HA!! ;D ;D ;D

I am HOME finally... before the stroke of midnight... Now let me get reading before I lose that damn slipper, my steed turn to mice and my coach into a punkin! :) Back on it... yall.

So then, votes have all been cast (hopefully) so safe to talk about shizzle.

Predictions?? I've got Weather Worn the winner, with A Beautiful Day runner up.

Quoted from Cameron

... Predictions?? I've got Weather Worn the winner, with A Beautiful Day runner up.

They sound like the odds-on favourites in a horse race.

Quoted from LC

They sound like the odds-on favourites in a horse race.

Hahaha, you Aussies and your natural love of a day at the races, I'd be surprised if they all don't!!! Pergo's Beast is also a great horse name, You Should Be Ashamed, Richard sounds like the horse of a repressed gambling addict

You're spot on, Cam!

Here comes Damascus Memories on the inside, followed by Die Fluffy Die... ;D

...

Goodies I liked:

Weather Worn was very good. Needs a new title to do it justice however.
We're All Dust In The End
MQ-LC4 (ooh, my initials at the end)
Raincheck ( with a ramp-it-up a bit rewrite)

I've got Dena pegged for the mozzie tale.
A UK writer deffo for Raincheck.

Die Fluffy Die!! If I'm ever stupid enough to buy a racehorse that WILL be it's name, keep an eye out people's...

Near enough 100% certain Weather Worn is Dave's, shall actually let him know this time why I keep being able to pick his scripts, the lad has a pretty obvious tell. That's if I'm right, of course.

In spite of the weather related jazz, I've got you down for We're All Dust In The End. It's you or Stevie as it had to be an Aussie given the level of detail in it

Quoted from Cameron

Die Fluffy Die!! If I'm ever stupid enough to buy a racehorse that WILL be it's name, keep an eye out people's...

;D You cracked me up laughing there. What a field!

Cam, I would never pick a favourite as my own btw. Not me.
I don't even have a horse in this race. ;)

I thought it could have been a double bluff...waaahhhhtt?? You telling me you didn't even enter a script??! Why, Libby, why?

Also, this means that it's got to have been Stevie with the Dusty one, unless there's another secret Aussie hiding in plain sight

I know nothing.

Except that there are other countries south of the equator. ;)
P.S. I wrote three actually, but none of them made the grade.

https://youtu.be/KWpRcRCUKsY

Lolicopters, with extra rofl's on top, Stevie. Did you have a horse in the race?? Not that video, the scripting race.

Libby!! You should have entered one of them just for the giggles, and you totally know who the super secret Aussie is...this is going to be interesting come reveal time

My breakdown went like this:
2 very good
8 good
9 fair
7 poor

A script’s gotta really blow me away to get an excellent. Although Rain Check came close.

8 fair
3 very good
15 good
1 excellent

A beautiful day was the only excellent and I hope it wins this OWC. Because it's such a perfect script.

Quoted from Cameron

So then, votes have all been cast (hopefully) so safe to talk about shizzle.

Predictions?? I've got Weather Worn the winner, with A Beautiful Day runner up.

Huh? Weather Worn, the winner?

Please send me what you're smoking, Cam!!!!

Wow! You guys are tough! ;D

I think I read 18 and voted most of them GOOD or higher. A couple of FAIR, but...

As far as guesses goes, I'm 100% sure Dena wrote the killer mosquito script. I knew it as soon as I saw the cover page. I always love how she does those. I've even asked her to help me make those. Other than that one, I have no clue.

Quoted from Dreamscale

Huh? Weather Worn, the winner?

Please send me what you're smoking, Cam!!!!

This week I've been mostly smoking a neatly rolled cone, filled with nothing but sweet, sweet common sense (read the reviews)...

It's that or A Beautiful Day, seems pretty clear.

I agree A Beautiful Day will be at or near the top, but I don't see Weather Worn even being top 6.

Ghost Crabs - #1!!!!!

Quoted from Dreamscale

... Ghost Crabs - #1!!!!!

The Atlantic Ghost Crab
http://eol.org/pages/313161/details

Quoted from LC

The Atlantic Ghost Crab
http://eol.org/pages/313161/details

WOW!!! And I thought the "regular" crabs just suddenly became "ghost" crabs.

Maybe they were actually ghost crabs the whole time?

i think my script caught crabs...

actually, that sounds fun in part :-)

Thanks Don and Pia for hosting this. Haven't been around in a long time, but the OWC rollercoaster doesn't fail to live up to its reputation.

my fav was a beautiful day - simple, clear, genuine decent - didn't see it coming - twist. I don't rate scripts on their ability to be filmed, but when combined it makes you hope it does.

cheers all

I believe Riot Time Knock Off will sweep the challenge!

Wow, coming into the final straight we have 3 apparent runners then!! Riot Time Knock Off, Weather Worn and A Beautiful Day heading to the line. It's been a good one this OWC, too close to call...votes are gonna be interesting!!

Quoted from Cameron

Actually, I donâ€™t think RTKO will sweep anything. I was trying to inconspicuously out myself. ;D I mean, now that all the fun is almost done.

Quoted from SAC

Actually, I donâ€™t think RTKO will sweep anything. I was trying to inconspicuously out myself. ;D I mean, now that all the fun is almost done.

Nonsense, Steve. I'm too excited to care for such a feeble opinion of one's work...it's coming up on the inside on the finishing straight and all noses are level (until the results come out).

We need to build some tension here

Shockingly, Die, Fluffy Die - Aquapussy is easily 1 of the best scripts here.

Does it have a chance to win? Probably not, but it should have.

Quoted from LC

.....And it'e Rubber Band down the stretch, Staircase making a move on the rail, Tooth Paste squeezes in to third....

Thanks Pia and Don for this challenge, it's the first time I've written a short for over a year and I really enjoyed getting going again, especially attempting to write without dialogue for the first time!

I thought there were qute a few strong entries, but my two favourites were MCQ-LC4 and Weather Worn.

Tsk, where's my bloody manners. Ta Don and Pia again for a cracking wee challenge, was really fun and a right good standard of reads. You guys rock.

Are the results out later today? Just to know whether to get excited or not...

Much thanks to Pia and Don for running the challenge and a very unique one at that.  This was very well run and moderated.

I have two minor thoughts  for future challenges ( and there easy for me to make since I don't have to do any of the work on it)

Rules/Parameter Clarifications

In all of the OWCs we start with a thread that reflects the theme/rules of a particular challenge. That thread grows with all sorts of comments to be a 14 or 15 page thread with more than 200 comments. Generally, buried among those will be 3 or 4 questions related to the challenge rules/parameters and an answer to the particular question. In this one by way of example there were clarifications related to hemisphere, budget, dialogue and the degree to which weather should be a part of the story - all answered completely.

The problem is that the questions and answers are buried in this enormous thread.  I saw them all because I am a retired fok with time on his hands. Not sure everyone has that same luxury and could easily miss rule clarifications.

Long winded way of saying that it may be advantageous to have one separate thread on the challenge rules/questions and answers and one separate thread for general discussion.

Voting restricted to participants

Would like to see this expanded to non-participants.  There have been several OWCs where I couldn't participate. Since I could not vote I refrained from making comments even though had several entries.  Didn't feel it quite right to state my opinion on a script if I wasn't going to vote. Maybe that's just me. Anyway, I think it would be nice to expand voting to non-participants. Peeps could email the Administrator and say I'm not participating but am going to read and would like a ballot.

Just food for thought.

Really fun challenge. Thanks Pia and Don. I wish I were able to read more than half the entries. :( As for my top four... A Beautiful Day, Weather Worn, "Die, Fluffy Die,... Aquapussy", and The Cave are my favorites this time around. :)

Zack

On the scripts.

Overall I thought folks did a real nice job here - especially given the challenge of no dialogue. This was a great restriction IMO because it did force me to learn a new skill. Loved that aspect of it.

Excluding mine (which of course I loved :), my top scripts, in no particular order, were:

Die Fluffy Die....

Didn't like the title (should have been "Save The Cat"), and thought the story was okay. What I did love was the crisp, clean writing and the challenge that this writer took in melding real world/with obvious animation. This should have been confusing as hell yet it was clear as day. I thought the craftsmanship was top notch.

Wish You Were Here

Loved the first three quarters of the script and all of it was expertly written. The ending was a huge problem for me.  Great writing otherwise.

A Beautiful Day

Crisp and clean and the writer took a real risk with style. IMO, a little more time spent on the situation going on in the other car would complete this one. Solid job.

Rain Check

Least appreciated story, IMO.  I loved the slow, nuanced roll-out of the heroes plight and I thought the simple theme of trying to stay sober through tough times was poignant. Others did not like it as much as me - I think that it's mostly rooted in what peeps personally enjoy...Which leads me to:

MQ - LC4

Which was the inverse for me. The story is not by cup of tea - just personal preference, but the writing was super solid. Much like Die Fluffy, the writer meet a difficult challenge in letting us clearly see something very complex.

The Cave

Cool story and solid writing.  IMHO opinion needed to start at a lower number as the beats repeated themselves. But this is a very good writer here.

Dust In The End

It needs tidying up for sure - several typos and format errors. Story-wise - poignant, heart felt. I had empathy for the heroes here and felt their flight.

And now for the most inane discussion point - AIR CONDITIONING!

Of all the things that I didn't think would be mentioned the lack of AC has to be at the top of the list:

1. No, not all people have AC.
2. Many of those that do simply can't afford to run it (I live in California, my summer electrical bill routinely exceeds $400 - a lot of folks simply can't afford that and their ACs stand idle).
3. The theme was heat and for most folks that meant unusual heat so it would not be surprising that structures built years ago would not be equipped the handle that heat. Sure, if you live in Arizona where the average temp is Hades, there is going to be a ton of ACs. If you live in Lake Tahoe - not so much.

OK, for me, INCLUDING my own amazing entry, there were 9 scripts that I gave 3 or more stars to, and of those 9, 4 received 4 stars.

The best of the best were...in no particular order...

Die, Fluffy, Die - Aquapussy - Writing needs some tidying up but story is well conceived and executed.  No dialogue aspect probably the very best, and it just has a feel god vibe to it.

Damask Memories - Writing needs work for sure, and I'm far from sold on the womb scenes, but there is real power in the story and portrayal of our Protag.  Probably too big for this OWC, and the no dialogue aspect seemed a little forced at times, but nonetheless, a strong contender.

Wish You Were Here - Very clean, easy to read, and visualize.  The ending doesn't seem to work for most, but for me, it actually hit rather hard.  I like the use of the song, and the no dialogue aspect was very smooth.

We Are All Dust In The Wind - Writing is by far the weakest of this bunch and easily the "weakest" aspect of this script, but the visuals are seriously powerful, painful, and real.  No punches being pulled here, and I always appreciate that. I like the use of the song, and even using the lyrics in the script.  The no dialogue aspect was fine until maybe the very end, but all in all, a haunting tale of despair.

And, the rest of the bunch in no particular order...

Rain Check

The Cave

MQ-LC4

Weather Worn

Tunnel Rat

Quoted from Dreamscale

Good list - but.....

Quoted Text

I agree A Beautiful Day will be at or near the top, but I don't see Weather Worn even being top 6.

You don't include A Beautiful Day in your top eight???

Top 3

1. Rain Check
2. MQ-LC4
3. Damask Memories

Quoted from eldave1

Good list - but.....

You don't include A Beautiful Day in your top eight???

I did give Weather Worn 3 stars, but for me, it was not memorable or even believable, but I had to include it, since that's how I scored it when I read it.

A Beautiful Day was on the verge of 3 stars, but the writing, the non existent story, and the cruel ending brought it down to 2 stars. I could easily have given it 3 stars, though.

In reading feedback, I do believe it will be a top 3 placer, though.

Quoted from eldave1

Good list - but.....

You don't include A Beautiful Day in your top eight???

Ha! I have found Dreamscale’s hatred for this script everything from frustrating to amusing to confusing. He admits it’s a good script but maintains it’s awful. But what the hey. Luckily we’re all talking about stories and everyone can love or hate them or even change their mind. No rules in imagination land hoorah!

Quoted from Anon

It's not an awful script in any way. It's just not what everyone thinks it is...IMO, of course.

Some Awards to throw out...

Best use of rats - Tunnel Rat

Best use of crabs and ghost crabs - A Taste of Hell

Best use of mosquitoes - MQ-LC4

Best use of killer nanobot mosquitoes - MQ-LC4

Best use of a cave - The Cave

Worst use of a funeral - The Burial

Best use of cameos - Sam, I am

Best use of a cartoon sun - Die, Fluffy, Die - Aquapussy

Worst use a music festival - Killer Vibes

Worst use a whale and a barracuda - Red Sun Burn

Worst use of a mall - The Mall

Worst use of a steel squirt gun - Riot Time Knockoff

And now...the highly coveted and rarely presented award for...

Best use of a blonde in a bikini on a neighborhood street...

goes to...wait for it...

Shortlisted

Congrats to all the winners!!

Best use of Hugh Grant??? I'm not sure there's a correct answer to that question

Quoted from Cameron

Best use of Hugh Grant??? I'm not sure there's a correct answer to that question

;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D

I only voted for ones that had the weather impacting the story in a big way

Weather Worn, the mozzie one, the duck one and I think there was one other. That was my critique on the criteria and I stuck with it

Quoted from stevie

Being that much of a hard ass - i’m glad you didn't vote on mine! Assuming it’s an average score from votes cast that wins it. Is that how it works?

Quoted from stevie

Weak, bro. Very weak!

Some of these took the weather angle to mean it had to be set in the future, in a dystopian world where water/heat/whatever isn't what it is today. This is not what the challenge was after.

You should vote on every script you read, as well as give the writer your feedback.

Quoted from Dreamscale

Bad luck brother! I still reviewed the ones I read. If I liked the script I said so! If I feel they didn’t meet the requirements in my eyes I said so. Some great scripts didn’t get any votes cos of that; I simply marked them as DQ’d. That was my take on it and stiffus shittus if you don’t agree ;D

If you get a dq'd put against your script it doesn't effect your final score anyway, does it? Essentially it's just spoiling your vote for that particular script and won't register as anything.

Not sure if I'm right in saying that, maybe there's some kind of super computer somewhere that works all this out

Quoted from stevie

As soon as the writers are revealed, I'm gonna argue my case that my script did in fact meet the requirements of the Heat stipulation. :D

Zack

I don’t know why but this OWC seemed to have thrown up the most divisive set of opinions, not on the scripts themselves, but on whether they complied.

I for one didn’t catch on to that enough. Shame as I really tried to be in tune with the theme, but I just picked up the wrong one. But hey, my scripts had issues anyway, I just hoped they would be judged on that alone. I suppose I thought we would see more summer orientated scripts.

But Nice to write again. I may even try again.

Dialogue free was a good idea, as was the page limit. I wouldn’t repeat it often, but good to try.

Catch up in October...unless the writing bug returns

Quoted from Reef Dreamer

Agree 100%!!!!  I tried to, and I honestly believed that as Pia mentioned "Summer heat", and that much of the world was going through either excessive heat or cold, using an area with 1 of the 2, based on where I lived, would suffice.

Sad that some took this so harshly...and I just gotta say to my friend and brother, Mr. Aussie "Arsie" himself (whose script I actually championed (as he PM'd me after I posted on it), that based on his own decision to DQ scripts, his own would be DQ'd, as it was neither "hot" or "cold".

We all cool though, and I do want to say 1 more thing...

I can't put into words how thankful I am for this site and the yeoman's job that The Don has done year in, year out, for so many years.  There's truly no place like this, anywhere, and all of the SS'ers who make this work, the good, the bad, and the very ugly, I salute you and appreciate you all for what you bring.

Looking forward to the next one.  Peace out!

Hey I hear you buddy. I just think that the scripts that tried to go further with the heat thing and actually have the weather interact with the story - and keep it non dialogue- were more inventive and lifted them above the others in creativity for me.

In all of the scripts I didn’t rate, the heat or cold had no impact on the story and they could’ve been any shorts in the public section that Don puts up. Except for the non dialogue which quite a few ‘cheated’ on anyway.

And I second your shoutout to Don and Pia! Legends!!!

Quoted from Reef Dreamer

I don’t know why but this OWC seemed to have thrown up the most divisive set of opinions, not on the scripts themselves, but on whether they complied.

The last challenge I was in... I was accused of cheating... so I bet I asked three questions BEFORE I wrote mine this time... I HATE to be accused of that. If the leader of the challenge says it's ok.. then it's ok... But I dunno... I think people get blown out of proportion with the parameters. The challenges I do with NYCMidnight are a little less vague. They give an object that must be in the script...a genre.. and a location(where the script must mostly take place).

I read this one as the weather would have to be part of the theme... so my script was the result of the weather... yet I didn't say too much about it after the intro.

I didn't knock anyone on the weather thing in my voting. It was too gray a line to decide if they used it proper or not.. so that didn't effect my voting at all.

Quoted from Pale Yellow

The last challenge I was in... I was accused of cheating...

What the...? How dare they. I don't even understand how a person could cheat. It's not like you can steal the answers from Don, or make cupcakes in exchange for votes. ;D

Quoted from eldave1

Good ideas! Should be made sticky threads! As far as the voting qualifications go, I have no problems with it. IMO, if someone, especially a regular member, has read at least half the scripts, I don't see why that person cannot vote. Especially if this voting system used here is is used. Voting only for your favorite is a bad voting system in my book because then number of votes matter while this way we used this time will give averages instead.

I'm glad most of you liked the challenge. It was IMO, closer to the original OWCs here and the MP challenges.

I have no idea when Don will post the results. If he sent the votes to me now, I could easily figure it out and post it, but I think he has been busy this weekend with other stuff. :)

Quoted from eldave1

Rules/Parameter Clarifications

In all of the OWCs we start with a thread that reflects the theme/rules of a particular challenge. That thread grows with all sorts of comments...

The problem is that the questions and answers are buried in this enormous thread. I saw them all because I am a retired fok with time on his hands. Not sure everyone has that same luxury and could easily miss rule clarifications.

Long winded way of saying that it may be advantageous to have one separate thread on the challenge rules/questions and answers and one separate thread for general discussion.

Voting restricted to participants

Would like to see this expanded to non-participants. There have been several OWCs where I couldn't participate. Since I could not vote I refrained from making comments even though had several entries. Didn't feel it quite right to state my opinion on a script if I wasn't going to vote. Maybe that's just me. Anyway, I think it would be nice to expand voting to non-participants. Peeps could email the Administrator and say I'm not participating but am going to read and would like a ballot.

Just food for thought.

Agree. Again. ;D I do think some people didn't see some important clarifications further into the thread. But then I question why call it Summer Heat, Winter Cold, in the first place, if it's not going to have specific bearing. That said I don't think it's had any bearing on people voting for their standout scripts.

As to your other point - I gave feedback on eleven scripts even though I did not enter and thus did not qualify to vote. I figure the more feedback and general consensus a writer gets, the better.

Libby, funny thing that you didn't enter. I gave permission to another northern hemisphere writer to write a cold weather script just so you wouldn't be the only one submitting one, lol!

Oh, well that was good of you, Pia! I drafted three but they didn't cut it imho. I might post at least one of them up later.

Quoted from LC

Oh, well that was good of you, Pia! I drafted three but they didn't cut it imho. I might post at least one of them up later.

Thanks, Libby for reading and posting.

I bet you reviewed lot more than many peeps who actually entered, and that is bad on the entrants, but GREAT on you! ;D ;D ;D ;D

Thanks, Jeff. Disappointed I didn't get one up but I was really interested to see what people came up with and there were definitely a few gems in the mix. The six pagers were easy to get through.

I think we should consider the shorter page count for more of these challenges given the pretty consistent high turnout.

Quoted from LC

Yep. Would not have entered without short page count. And if ever entered again I would always keep mine in under 3/4 pages - no time for anything else! But i’d still be put off by not having time to read other long scripts....

Quoted from Pale Yellow

Sounds tough - I also react badly when accused of taking liberties. Probably why this one bothered me even though my scripts weren’t up to scratch.

Quoted from LC

Thanks for reading Libby

I agree the more people involved the better, especially neutrals

Quoted from LC

Thanks - there were a couple of important clarifications in the thread:

Quoted Text

There should be no formatting for dialogue. That's a given. However, we do a lot of communication these days via emails and texts and such. If you need to use some way to show a message I would use it very sparingly. The more you use, the more people will think you're pushing it or even cheating, so I imagine that will be reflected in the scores. I have no problem with someone receiving a text or an email, just not whole conversations.

AND

Quoted Text

They were both very valuable insights. To me it meant that non-dialogue based communication was fine - I several scripts that had communication in them (a whisper, a text, etc) and thankfully in all cases it was used "sparingly". Thought all were fine in this regard.

In terms of the weather - I can only assume that some peeps maybe didn't see the clarification as there were some where the heat or cold did not have an impact on the story or the characters.

Alas - as it turns out none of the ones that I ultimately liked or didn't like had no relation to the rules. i.e., my votes would have turned out pretty much exactly the same.

Wish you could have voted as you liked mine and I think I needed it. As a note, had you hated it I would have championed the inverse :)

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