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There have been some things going on lately and I’d like to talk about it with some of the adults if possible. Kevan mentioned it somewhat in another thread and I’d like to make a place for Kevan, myself, and other adults to discuss our feelings.
I’ll admit that part of the reason I haven’t been coming around as often is due to the direction this site is taking. I’m very busy at work. The summer is coming and the station I work for is gearing up for more remotes, I’m in the middle of producing a new program, meeting after meeting, blah, blah, blah.
But I have always tried to make time for this site. Why? Because I love to write. I’m addicted to it. In a way, it’s my source of life. If I found out I couldn’t write anymore, I would rather just jump off a cliff than live another day. And this, Simply Scripts, has proven to be one of my favorite internet sites for writers. And pound for pound one of the best sites with a discussion board I’ve ever seen.
But lately, I feel the place has begun to turn into a sort of “Kid’s Blog” site. We seem inundated with posts from kids who think that every little thought that randomly pops into their heads is worthy of garnering attention.
I understand completely and appreciate that this site offers a chance to socialize aside from writing. We all need a break. I love to come here. I love to write. I love to post. I love to read. I love to comment. I love to socialize with other writers. I love to learn.
Lately, however, my love of this site has diminished somewhat. I can’t quite put my finger on it altogether. Some of the problems here were going on prior so I’m not completely certain what’s different.
Is it me or does it seem that there are more posts that have absolutely nothing to do with serious writing than there are posts that do pertain to writing? Or was it always this way and I’m just depressed?
I’m very concerned about this. If this site becomes reputed as a kid’s site where people play all the time and goof off, then it will lose all credibility. Bear in mind, it doesn’t have to be a kid’s site, it just has to be reputed to be.
How can we adults get social interaction for ourselves? I like to play with the kids too you know. But my writing comes first. Honestly, that kind of commitment can only be expected of the most serious of the young writers, of which there are in fact a few.
But what of the vastly growing population of young people who are coming here and turning this site into a “Teen Diary” site for kids to post whatever pops into their heads?
The WIP thread is already a joke for the most part. It’s overwhelmed with ridiculous posts where we’re given a brief vague synopsis and asked to provide a title, core plot elements, and practically asked to write it alongside them every step of the way.
The boards are already saturated with first drafts, riddled with spelling, grammar, and serious format issues from writers who insist on posting their work as soon as they have anything at all to post. They haven’t the patience to hold off until their work is more viable. And this will hurt them in the long run.
The boards are already filled with “drop off” scripts from non-participants.
In other words - we’ve got enough problems. I would hate to see this site go the way of so many teen blog sites and become a teen hangout for writers who have no discipline or focus. This site has so much to offer writers. It’s such a valuable resource.
Until Kevan’s post, I didn’t know if anyone felt the way I did. I too have been weighing the possibility of going somewhere else. But where? Any which way you look at it, this is still pound for pound the best writers' website on the internet in my opinion.
I do have to say (and I feel terrible for even saying it…even thinking it), but if there was somewhere that offered everything this site offered but was for adults only, I would go. I would still participate here and use SS as an additional resource. But as the kid’s took over, I would come less and less. I hate the thought. I’m just expressing my feelings. And I hope no one takes offense to them.
Is there anybody out there who feels like we’re being overrun or am I just in a strange place lately?
I've found my enjoyment somewhat diminished as well -- and would quote every point Brea has made -- if that wouldn't look stupid --
-- and that's the point -- the people who don't care about looking stupid.
You know who you aren't -- but the trouble is, the people I am talking about have no idea I am talking about them. Sigh.
It's a credibility issue, really -- for the site itself. Regular members know this site can be a valuable resource, with plenty of good scripts to offer.
But to the casual drop-in -- maybe somebody seriously looking for a producible script -- this place is starting to look like Pee-Wee's Playhouse.
I know Don has his reasons for not enforcing some quality control in the scripts he accepts -- or minimal, at any rate -- and they are good, valid reasons, actually -- but the site is growing -- and the times they are a'changing.
Maybe it's time to give a little thought to expecting a little more from those who would consider themselves "members" of this forum.
I've been here for a while now, although my post count would not indicate it and I wouldn't really say things have gone downhill, though there are a lot of pointless threads. I don't mind a few funny, sarcastic posts inside a thread, as long as the thread gets back on topic. If I leave a funny post, then I also make sure I leave something useful in the thread also.
I takes time to write something and polish it off, so we shouldn't have something new from a writer in months. Although, shorts are not included in this assessment. This leads to the drop in serious scripts posted that have the potential to be shopped around. In between these scripts, there are a lot of scripts submitted by people who are not members or post once and disappear. So it's hard to find and read the scripts that are seriously written with the intent of being re-writing upon receiving proper critiques. I will respond to scripts, no matter how well (or poor) the script is written, only if I know the writer will listen to our advice and actually re-write the script and not jump on another idea next week.
Now, don't get me wrong, I'm not saying one writer is better than the other, I'm just trying to weed out the writers who need our help, listen to our help and actually re-write the damn thing rather than the writers that post once and disappear.
For me, age is not a concern. There are a few younger writers here that I believe have potential, so I'm going to give them my tupence and hopefully help them out along the way. There are a few young writers who probably just write for fun. I'm still going to give them my tupence and help them - but only if they listen and want to re-write the work.
As for the banter and chit-chat, that doesn't bother me either. This is a community and there are threads I stay away from. This has been like this for the 2 plus years I've been here. Though, I would tend to agree that there are a few younger members and a few more pointless threads than there were before, but most do make a contribution to the boards. Yeah, every so often there are tit-tats, but that's normal in any community. So it doesn't bother me.
This topic seems to come up every 6 or so months, dies down, then comes up again. It doesn't really bother me to be honest, I get so much out of this site.
If anything - I would make it a bit harder for people to submit scripts. For example, only registered members of the discussion board can submit scripts. I think Wesley had a good idea a while back, but I forget right now.
I've just re-read my post and it rambles on. Hopefully I've got to the point I was trying to make. If not, I apologise.
PS - I also don't think this should be an 'adult' only posting and topic as for me, I don't consider anyone's age when I read scripts, chat with people, reply to topics or offer critiques.
The WIP thread is already a joke for the most part. It’s overwhelmed with ridiculous posts where we’re given a brief vague synopsis and asked to provide a title, core plot elements, and practically asked to write it alongside them every step of the way.
Are you talking about how the person's idea soon turns into a thread about jokes, aliens, or some random thing that doesn't have to do with the person who started the thread's work in progress?
I feel the same way as you and Bert do, but I try and ignore it, though I have to read it every day.
But I still love Simply Scripts and I am not going to have this kind of stuff get in my way of my screen writing. Besides my stress levels are already high enough...
I agree with both of you, Breanne and Bert and there's been some talking going on between members privately about this. Maybe something needs to be done.
It's not just the age either I think. Not even Chris/Rapture posts as much anymore and he's 14! He's young but he's not stupid so it's not necessarily the age. I'm with Breanne, I can't quite put my finger on it, but it's not the same as it used to be.
The WIP thread is already a joke for the most part. It’s overwhelmed with ridiculous posts where we’re given a brief vague synopsis and asked to provide a title, core plot elements, and practically asked to write it alongside them every step of the way.
What can I say? Nobody cares and if I do anything as the moderator, I get more crap for it.
In addition, I have been here since early 2003 and it has always been like this, maybe worse at times but a consistent flow. Certain members from the past and present like to cause problems.
Even if Don raises the age limit, it will not fix the problem.
All you can do is avoid the general discussions and stick to the writing threads, if you see something in those that is wrong tell Don about it. Going off in a rant as people have done recently about certain topics just forces Don to act and you're at risk of being banned.
I don't like seeing people get banned because most of them have been people I enjoyed having around that contributed as writers (VKonstant, Balt, Casey, Curse, SonofElrond and so on) I warned those guys before it happened not to do it, I even tried getting some of them back. (Some have since come back but without Balt and Vic, these boards lost two great writers who also give helpful reviews)
This is a message board. Everyone has a choice which discussions you contribute to. Better to just let pointless threads die out rather than egg their posters on. I see where you're coming from, Breanne, and to some extent, I agree with you but don't think it's any good to post these kinds of threads either since they don't really change anything. In fact, most of them end up getting locked. Like I said, better to just ignore the pointless threads because they really don't prevent anyone from benefiting from the site.
CURSE Yeah, but you haven't basically grown up with this board for the past year almost. This has been one of the most amazing sites I've ever been to and I really wouldn't want to see it go or have to leave until I get older.
I've met so many great writers on here that have looked over the way I was at first (ha ha. I was a dork) and gave me a second chance and have really helped me grow as a writer.
This has been one of the most amazing sites I've ever been to and I really wouldn't want to see it go or have to leave until I get older.
Yeah without SS I'd probably end up in an insane asylum. Well, I'm probably going to end up in there soon, but I would need to have something to do while in a straight jacket and locked in a padded room...I could use my nose to type...
Nobody supported my wild ideas of getting rid of useless members who don't want to contribute as well as their screenplays and getting rid of all the social boards but now look what we have.
I shall go to work now because this topic and Kevan's prove me right... again.
But you should really look at what you're saying because you are actually blaming Don, it's his board and he could control people if he wanted but I think like most people he knows the boards would die without the social aspect.
I fear the result of this and the other post, I've had the same thoughts for awhile but I'm sticking with the site that basically created/molded me as a writer.
I think a good idea may be if it's possible I have no idea:
I often use the portal button, and try to stick purely to the writing threads...
However the portal button encompasses all additions, I wish there was a way to make it customizable so that I would only see updates to Boards related to screenwriting questions, screenplay reviews and review requests, and the like. That way I'd never even know there were other posts out there...
Any ideas?
Obviously ignoring them would work like was previously mentioned but, this may be a solution for those hoping for an "adult site" they could basically create their own, pertaining only to those boards that get this "adult" attention.
Just my thoughts.
Mason: "Are you sure you're ready for this?" Stan Goodspeed: "I'll do my best." Mason: "You're best. Losers always whine about their best. Winners go home and f*** the prom queen!" Stan Goodspeed: "Carla was the prom queen." Mason: "Really?" Stan Goodspeed: "Yeah!"
the portal button encompasses all additions, I wish there was a way to make it customizable so that I would only see updates to Boards related to screenwriting questions, screenplay reviews and review requests, and the like. That way I'd never even know there were other posts out there...
You may actually have found the problem. Often serious threads about scripts gets pushed down the list real fast due to chatter threads and then they get lost and that's a shame.
...this may be a solution for those hoping for an "adult site"...
Oh, look -- I think I see Shelton racing over here now haha -- I knew the title would bring him running soon enough...
Members who have been around a while can navigate the site and find what they want easily enough, Jaykur.
And Wesley is absolutely right about the social aspects. Don's bold experiment a few months back proved this beyond a doubt.
I just wish the content of this site could be more "condensed" for the uninitiated -- or for those fishing for good scripts.
I think a handful of new moderators -- with a "license to delete" in terms of nonsensical posts -- would make a nice "trial basis" experiment. And it's not too hard to figure out who should do it, either.
And I think we should be allowed to vote scripts "off the island".
I agree with a lot of people here, on different matters. The immature/humorous bantering is something that will never go away on any message board. I belong to a couple of them and this always shows up. As James said, if you don't like the thread, ignore it and let it die out.
A big problem here is that sign up with different expectations of the board (their own agenda). They think that simplyscripts is here so everyone can read their script. They drop it off and think everyone is going to rush to read it. This board is a two way read. I am not obligated to read anyone's scripts and no one is obligated to read mine. The fact that we get dozens of scripts here a week makes it impossible to read all of them.
I, personally, don't read slasher scripts, or zombie scripts, or anime. For the most part, I don't read series, either. They're just not my thing. So, these ones are already off my list.
After this, I read the synopses. A lot of these synopses just don't grab me and that's what they're supposed to do. If one that I've read sounds like one I've read the other day, then this is off my list.
I also consider the authors. I'm weary about reading scripts from people I don't know. I've read enough from those who do not contribute at all to the boards. A couple of times, I even posted in the script thread "let me know you're here so I can review it." Most of the time, I get no response. Other times, the member actually says they're here to get read, not to read others. Some people here, although active on the boards, get argumentative when you comment on their scripts. I don't read them after that. And then there's those people with the reputation of cranking out bad script after bad script.
My primary reason, here, is to get my work produced. I've never denied or hid that little fact. But in order for me to get the help I need for that, I have to help others. If I want people to read my scripts, I have to read theirs. And, in order for me to read your script, you have to make me want to read it. First draft scripts with numerous misspellings, bad formatting and a dull synopsis and story will not get you read.
I'm fairly new to this site, especially the discussion board section (I only just discovered it actually). My own feelings are that what makes this site unique is that it is for everyone. If it were restricted or exlusive somehow then I don't think it would have the same appeal for me. We need to encourage new blood, don't we? Anyways, I know I never would have stuck around long enough to appreciate it if it were restricted.
To Breanne I would say that without a doubt your voice and the others like you are coming through so don't feel too discouraged.
"If at first, the idea is not absurd, then there is no hope for it." - Albert Einstein
I have been here since early 2003 and it has always been like this, maybe worse at times but a consistent flow….
All you can do is avoid the general discussions and stick to the writing threads…
Hey Wesley,
Thanks for your insights. In regards to the WIP thread: yeah, I used the word overwhelmed because I know it’s not feasible for you to completely control it. That seems to be a particularly favorite stomping ground for some of the more inane posters. I think you handle it as well as can be expected.
I don’t think there should be an age limit either. I agree that there are some talented young writers here (most of whom are also surprisingly mature for their ages) and I wouldn’t want to see them cut off from the resources here.
But maybe Bert has a point when he speaks about having higher expectations of the writers. The serious young writers here would certainly rise to any heightened expectations and be fully accepted. A membership requirement to post a script is definitely a good idea as far as I can see. And quite reasonable.
And why not at least an adult section? I don’t know, just an idea.
One of my concerns is for the site’s reputation. As a writer (and a particularly serious one), I’m concerned that if this site is considered by outsiders to be without merit, then I may have to leave even though I don’t want to. I have to consider things from a business standpoint as well. I want to be pleased to say my work is posted here. I think I have a legitimate concern.
This topic seems to come up every 6 or so months, dies down, then comes up again.
MacDuff, thanks for your insights as well. This issue keeps popping up because it needs to be dealt with. These problems are not growing pains. They’re unresolved issues.
Are you talking about how the person's idea soon turns into a thread about jokes, aliens, or some random thing that doesn't have to do with the person who started the thread's work in progress?
Dead, no, I’m referring to the fact that the WIP thread isn’t used for its intended purpose. Many of the threads started there are not works-in-progress but just kids hanging out and posting random ideas. They need to get their scripts into a workable form to be considered a “work”-in-progress. Many are not works. They’re just random ideas and musings.
At the development stages many of them are in, there is the high likelihood the “project” will be abandoned. And they usually are. People will spend days asking for titles and plot ideas and then say, “okay, I’m going to work on three other projects I’m in the middle of and then maybe I’ll get back to this one.”
They’re not working on projects. Their full of cr*p and too naïve to know it. The reason they’re “project-jumping” is because they’re in the beginning brainstorming phase of project development. Nothing more. It’s an infant stage and they don’t know it because they’re naïve and because they have this forum that allows them to make instant nuisances of themselves. That’s what I was referring to. The WIP thread is often improperly used from the get-go.
I see where you're coming from, Breanne, and to some extent, I agree with you but don't think it's any good to post these kinds of threads either since they don't really change anything.
James, saying nothing is what won’t change anything. I think the fact that some of the adults feel like their enjoyment of the site is diminished is worth discussing. I’m sorry you feel this issue is without merit but I humbly disagree.
I also think the reputation of the site is something worthwhile to consider.
I'm fairly new to this site, especially the discussion board section (I only just discovered it actually). My own feelings are that what makes this site unique is that it is for everyone. If it were restricted or exlusive somehow then I don't think it would have the same appeal for me. We need to encourage new blood, don't we? Anyways, I know I never would have stuck around long enough to appreciate it if it were restricted.
To Breanne I would say that without a doubt your voice and the others like you are coming through so don't feel too discouraged.
Hey M,
Thanks for the encouraging words. Yes, you’re right. I certainly wouldn’t want a serious new writer to feel discouraged from participation.
It’s a pickle. No doubt about it.
I think the problem here is the growing number of writers who just aren’t really serious. How can we be open and embrace new writers and eliminate the writers who don’t really have a passion for the craft? I don’t want to see this place become an exclusive club either.
I’m just speaking generally now - this is a site about screenwriting, isn’t it? If it’s open to absolutely anything, without any criteria whatsoever, then it’s not a screenwriting site. It’s an open board to discuss whatever. If it’s a screenwriting site, then why is too much to ask for members who take screenwriting seriously?
And if screenwriting is expected to be taken seriously, then how can it be determined who is serious and who is not?
I have a bad feeling that I may be one of the accused here.(I did turn one thread into one about sex with dead people), so I guess I'm guilty, sometimes I say or do things without thinking. But I am proud to say I have not got into one fight or argument here, if I start to get pissed off I just leave it alone (I wish I could say the same for me in the "offline" world). So I guess this is an apology, I will TRY from now one to stay on topic in threads instead of turning it into some kinda pointless discussion.
Oh, look -- I think I see Shelton racing over here now haha -- I knew the title would bring him running soon enough...
You got that right, Bert. I knew what this thread was about before I clicked on it. I was hoping to finally see some names as to who are the "experienced" writers and who are the "jackasses", but no dice.
I think a handful of new moderators -- with a "license to delete" in terms of nonsensical posts -- would make a nice "trial basis" experiment. And it's not too hard to figure out who should do it, either.
Yeah, the people who justifiably have access to the site all day long. Basically the people I see online while I'm online all day long.
I'm really trying to understand the breakdown here. Is the problem now with inactive "members" posting scripts and never coming back to check on them unless it's for a review, the arguments that go on in certain threads, or the "comical" posts that attempt to get a quick laugh?
If it's the latter, we're all guilty, but if we're gonna draw a line in the sand, let's draw a line in the sand. Adults on one side, kids on the other, and age has nothing to do with it. Once that's decided, the "children" can decide whether or not they wanna take their head out of their can and contribute in a more adult fashion or go elsewhere.
I'd be curious to see that breakdown as I have no idea which group I'd be lumped into .
I had an idea. Instead of just a WIP Board, how about an 'Idea' board. Maybe something like the Script Review Exchange. Maybe this board could be split - An 'Ideas' and 'My Idea - what do you think?'.
I think that lots of nonsence gets put into the WIP because people just want to show their ideas. Even I've done the same myself. I think there should be seperate idea boards.
The problem is that an "Adult Thread" implies those who qualify through age rather than actual maturity levels. There are plenty of young folk--minors technically--who can put together a solid effort of a screenplay and contribute to the boards regularly. Now, I do see where this whole thing is coming from as well as reading Kevan's post in the other thread.
To address the general issue, there's always gonna be immature posts here and there or goofy one liners inserted for a gag. Not only on forums, but in real life. This is a community website, so you're always gonna have those quirks. It's nothing to be troubled about. I do notice that there are alot of threads which probably didn't have alot of thought put into them such as 7 out of every 10 WIP things or a thread calling people arrogant and whatnot, but what can ya do?
If someone posts 5 ideas in the WIP thread in the span of a week, is anyone gonna take them seriously? Probably not. Will anyone read their script when it's posted? Probably no one who takes writing seriously. Then the script falls into oblivion and that's the end of that.
Now I'm also guilty of not being very active the past couple weeks. I haven't reviewed a script in a while and I'm sure my one liner, which is evidently trying to boost my post count, was taken in haste by some folk. So, if anyone falls into that category, I am sorry for pissing you off, but again, this is a community forum. Everyone has posted at one point or another some one liner gag just for kicks. Sorry, I'm feeling targetted here.
So I plan to get back to reviewing and posting actively once those idiots at the cable company fix our router problem. I do see where Breanne is coming from and we've had this kind of thing before. It fluxuates from month to month, but the only way to really "fix" it would be to go with that experiment Don did a few weeks ago by removing all the boards. I don't necessarily agree with it but it would help.
I was leary of this thread as soon as I saw the title of it, but I was pleasantly surprised to find a worthwhile discussion. In some respects, I've gone through all phases of a bad member to where I am now. I posted a couple of scripts 6 months before I joined the discussion board. I didn't even know there was one for awhile. After I joined, I did what all newbies do: ask for reads on my threads only. This didn't work, so I whined for awhile about it. Finally, I came around to what was really going on and things have been find ever since, but that acclimation period took awhile.
I know that sidebar conversations that people have to both blog and boost their numbers have always gone on and will always go on. I read them now and then for a smile and occasionally post on them to try and get the conversation back on track...yeah, that never works.
There are several suggestions on this thread about how to make things better and the bad news is that few, if any, will work. Requiring membership of people who post scripts is decent, but it was the link off of my script that said "Discuss this script" that led me here. Raising the age limit would knock off some of the good, younger writers who have potential, and we don't want that either. Censoring the poorly formatted scripts won't work, since that puts more work on Don, and sometimes, the writer just doesn't know yet that the standards are actually standards as opposed to suggestions. Maybe they just had a good story and wrote it the best they knew how.
Formatting bias is actually one of our bigest weak points. I've read several poorly formatted scripts that were actually pretty decent. Format is a very, very minor part of the writing process. It's a big part of selling, but the story is what we try to develop at this stage more than the format. I've read multiple reviews where 2/3's of the review was format, followed by a few sentences on the hardest part, the story. I think we need to place a lesser emphasis on format and more on making a good story since a good story can take a long time to develop whereas I can fix the format on something in a couple hours (that's feature length). If we were more encouraging of those budding stories whose format is a little off, we might tap into some good writing instead of assuming that bad format = bad story, which is not always the case. Maybe the person read the screenplays they liked and all of them were poorly rendered; we don't know.
All we have to do is weather the nonsense threads and report them when they get out of hand. Don is good at keeping things reigned in, and if we can point him to problems, we can make his job easier so they can be fixed. For all intents and purposes, this board is here for us, and those of us who do post responsibly will have a lot of pull with him (I would think). I know if I were in his position, I would sooner take a suggestion from Breanne than I would one of the kids with twice her post count.
I don't think we need more rules. What we need is more action from those of us who do care. We may not be able to delete troublesome threads on the spot, but we can send a PM to someone who can.
EDIT: And don't feel bad, Greg. I'm guilty of a few one-liners myself...
You got that right, Bert. I knew what this thread was about before I clicked on it. I was hoping to finally see some names as to who are the "experienced" writers and who are the "jackasses", but no dice.
You're the jackass! You're just too immature and stupid to realize that....jackass. (insert stupid smiley here).
You're the jackass! You're just too immature and stupid to realize that....jackass. (insert stupid smiley here).
See Greg? Phil's guilty of goofy one-liners too.
Quoted from Alan_Holman
I understand slasher or zombie, as they're usually they same tired cliches about fear and survival ... but anime is usually philosophical, fresh, and intellectually stimulating. I don't understand your prejudice. What's your problem with anime?
And Alan, this is way off-topic. Sparking a discussion regarding Phil's opinions on a particular genre that you are fond of will not entice him to read your prized work.
I understand slasher or zombie, as they're usually they same tired cliches about fear and survival ... but anime is usually philosophical, fresh, and intellectually stimulating. I don't understand your prejudice. What's your problem with anime?
It's probably just Phil's preference. I don't really read comedy scripts, I just stick to the horror, dramatic or sci-fi.
Also - I've noticed a trend on the people who have responded to this thread, but maybe it's just me?
I understand slasher or zombie, as they're usually they same tired cliches about fear and survival ... but anime is usually philosophical, fresh, and intellectually stimulating. I don't understand your prejudice. What's your problem with anime?
I've never found anime to be anything you suggest, whether reading it or watching it.
I'm going to go ahead and throw my two cents in here.... just because I've got a feeling i am among the immature folk discussed on this thread.
I'm actualy glad to see this discussion... it's clarified a few things for me, that i think i may have mistaken about some of the members on this board.
Message boards can be tricky sometimes cause you can't always tell the intentions behind what someone is saying because you cant see them... or what happened to me - you can take something someone said to someone else.. thinking they said it to you...and then its just a big mess.
The work in progress board i'll admit i got a little carried away with. i'd been writing for years, but id never actually handed my material off to anyone outside of my circle of friends. when i came to this board - i was so anxsious to get feedback on what i had come up with from real writers... i started posting the ideas i had had for scripts.... and that rubbed a lot of people the wrong way. i didnt know at the time it was about "one idea...one script....come back when youve finished" i have since stopped doing that.... trial by error.
i'm not here to crash the party. im not here to start pointless threads. infact the threads that i have started that have gotten me into trouble was - not so subtly calling out some of the veterans of this board to be nicer to newbies.... not knowing to the extent of how jaded and irratied the site had become in general because of newbies and amatures posting halfass scripts and disappearing. or whiners trying to get their scripts read when they wont read anyone elses.
thats NOT me.
the thing to keep in mind is newer memebers don't know and understand yet the kind of "established society" you all have created here. theres a way of doing things... a process... and not all new memebers are aware of that right away.
as for me.... well i have learned a lot on this site....including proper formatting of a script, the three act structure, the heroes quest... ect ect.... and despite some of the arguments and tirades i have gotten into on in this forum.... i want to point out... i am reading other peoples scripts... i've giving the best criticism i can come up with (most of you are better writers then i so i leave the play by play edits to you) and at the same time i have taken both positive and negative feedback seriously.
I am a serious writer....even if my personality and comments may say otherwise.
Breanne, well said my dear! I am impressed by how well you made your points, really I am! And that goes for everyone else too. George, Phil, Bert, Greg, Stew ... I think you all made some very valid points too.
Unfortunately, I've turned into more of a watcher rather than a reader these past few months. I've not had the time to participate in the way I'd like to, so I've just cut back on my SS contact as a result. I have however kept myself aware of the newly written stuff by the regulars, and when life slows down a bit, and I get settled after I relocate to CA, I hope to be able to engross myself in those scripts once more. I've said that I'll read certain people's scripts and I will stick to that!!! I'm just unsure right now as to when I'll be free to. Till then, I've remained distant because my personal life has been hectic and the priority for me as of late.
I miss it here, a lot, but at the same time I'm still able to see how you guys and gals are getting on, which almost fills the void. I feel even more ecstatic when I hear how well some of you are doing with your work! When you do well, I feel happy! So yeah, we are a well developed online community here.
** Kudos to Don and all the rest of you for contributing to this gem of a site **
I do understand how frustrating it is for the people here who are trying to make a career out of their passion for writing. Having a reputable forum and site to relay back to contacts is crucial, so yes, we all have a right to be concerned with any shifts in moods or changes on the forum. It's not just Don's responsibility to make this place the best screenwriting site online, it's everyones. Everyone who gives a damn about their passion that is, and who can behave maturely. Contributing in a positive manner too is also important I might add!!
I've noticed that in the last year or so, what with various departures from the forum and newbies arriving, that things have changed a bit, but not radically. I have however noted the number of younger members, but that isn't the thing I take issue with at all. Not the age. I only get irritated by the immaturity. This applies to the adults aswell as the teens. Having a laugh is one thing, behaving like an asss is another. This is where mods could perhaps step in a little more --->> delete - delete - delete!!!!!!!! I know from being a moderator on another forum, that it's sometimes tricky to be tough, but sometimes you just have to be, to keep some people in line...
This leads me onto this next point and an important one to note. Wes...Steven, I prefer, I think you do a great job hon, and I have to be honest here, I can't even list who all the other mods are, because I see Wes as being the most active. I hope you realise that you are appreciated around here. I sometimes sense that you might feel otherwise and if so, lemme just send you an online bitch-slap to correct you. I think you're very influential around here and are always fair, so keep doing what you do.
I'm sure the other mods are also keeping things ticking over too, and thanks again for doing what you do too... but I do think that the site could benefit from perhaps another moderator in the most active sections of the forum.. I agree that it should be a member who regularly frequents the board too. This is in no way a reflection on the other mods here, just that I think that due to the rapid expansion of the site, it could very well benefit from one more person keeping things also in check.
I like how Don has things set out here and I think that having a second portal button, which excludes the off-topic stuff, would be too confusing. Why not just go to the main home page instead, and concentrate in the areas which do appeal to you? Just think it makes more sense than having two portals to choose from and is unnecessary work for Don.
Sometimes venting is what can make a difference, as long as it doesn't get out of line. Getting things off one's chest can bring people closer together and in a way, I think this thread has done that... so far... I hope it stays like this.. civil that is!!!!!! We'll see...!
All in all, I think we all just need a group hug and a butt cheek squeeze or three. Mike? Bert? Greg? Phil? Anyone? Anyone?
Andy xxx
PS - HeroDreamer - We all can be misunderstood from time to time.. and when we are, it can suck.. a lot!! I think you mean well, but it takes time to get to know people and even then online, it's difficult to do that. I just hope that we all can try to understand one another better from now on. Hello btw
Alan, that's still not what this thread is about, and you're taking it off topic, again. Instead of telling us who we could learn what from, perhaps you could learn to keep a topic on track!
Phil isn't interested in Anime! There's no need to take it personally! It's not an attack on you. We all like to read certain genres, formats or whatever you want to call it. It's HIS choice what he wants to read at the end of the day and I highly doubt that you're going to convince him just because are fond of it! Each to his or her own.
Please give Breanne and the others here the courtesy to keep this important thread on topic.
It's not a genre ... it's a format! -- a format which can include many genres in the same script! Charlie Kaufman could learn a lot about meaningful madness from Yoji Enokido. Alan Ball could learn a lot about human drama from Izô Hashimoto. Kevin Smith could learn a lot about ... well, he's doing okay. And the late Stanley Kubrick should have learned a lot from Katsuhiro Ôtomo and Osamu Tezuka and Kôichi Mashimo. The cream of the crop who write for anime in Japan are the best screenwriters in the world, and if you're an adult who wants to have a mature discussion about screenwriting, you shouldn't be prejudicial against the ones who can teach you the most about any genre ... becuase anime is the format which does all genres best.
Stanley Kubrick had more to learn than Kevin Smith, huh? - very well thought out comment.
Alan,
You and I have done a pretty good job of avoiding each other. I pretty much disagree with you on d*mn near everything you say. Let’s just be honest here. We don’t like each other. And I’m okay with that.
But if the Kubrick remark is a jab at me, it only reinforces my already low opinion of you.
There is a thread to discuss your favorite anime, Alan. I dropped by there. It’s still there.
I apologize to the other posters for my last post. I was incensed because I started a serious thread to discuss a serious topic and Alan, as usual, is trying to turn it into an advertisement.
I don’t mind the playful remarks. They lighten the mood and I appreciate that.
But what Alan is doing is taking the opportunity to turn the subject to anime to hock his anime script that just got posted. I know this because this is what he always does. And it made me angry. That and the Kubrick remark.
So I apologize and I would like for this very important dialogue to continue.
I think what would help out a lot is for those of us who tend to do the most talking on topic to reign in the threads that get out of control. I made an attempt on a recent thread to reign it in, but others took the bait from the instigator to continue the drivvle that was there. To an extent, we are moderators if we want to be. A moderator is not someone with the power to delete unwanted or offensive messages only; they can also try to control a topic that is going a direction that isn't right for the board. By taking control of the conversation and trying to steer it where it needs to go, a straight ability to delete is not needed. If we can all practice this, we'll find the board to be more agreeable to what some of us are looking for.
That and stop slamming people for bad format. This is a learning board, and as I was perusing posts after earlier, I saw yet more slams on some new person for bad format. Seriously. Make it a teaching situation and tell them how to improve. "It sucks" is not worthwhile feedback. "It sucks because..." is much better.
P.P.S. - That's because I hide in the bushes very well.
Are you being naughty or am I being sick? LMAO! I love Mike. And Helio... and Phil and Greg and Stew and Brea and George and Bert and Tomson and Kevan and Don and Wes and Curse and.... dammit I wanna hold ALL your hands!!! Especially Higgs's hands ...
Quoted from dogglebe
You had your chance to grab my butt when you were in New York and--wait a sec, you did.
And I enjoyed it a lot, Phil...too much..! You do have an awesome arse though, damn Yankee
~
George makes an excellent point about how the story is more important than the formatting though. I think I write better when I focus on that first and worry about formatting last. It still is important to learn the industry standard format etc.. (I'm still not 100% there yet myself) but storyline is what will keep the reader hooked, or in my opinion, should be what keeps you interested!
Bad formatting is the easiest thing to correct in a script. No one gets close and personal to how wide the margins (or atleast thtey shouldn't). Given this, when someone's script is not properly formatted, everyone can just say so and refer to a script that is.
If there's a problem with characterization and/or storytelling, that's another problem. And one that's hardest to learn.
I think the catharsis is winding down so I thought I step in and add a few final thoughts before I lock the thread (I just got off work about an hour ago). Locking the thread only because I think it has run its course and people have had his/her say on the topic and the thread is starting to stray to Kumbya and bum pinching.
The ‘quality’ of posts on the discussion board, kid’s blogs and random thoughts.
Interestingly enough during this great discussion almost all of the other posts seems to center around scripts and writings, which is a good thing. There does tend to be an ebb and flow of, let us call them ‘silly’ posts. The above thread shows very clearly that a serious topic can go astray, get ‘silly’ and go off topic. It happens. When it does, the moderators try to identify that and lock the threads that have run their course or delete the off topic posts when they can. We miss a few, sometimes.
“kids” – If I didn’t allow ‘kids’ then folks like Heretic and Shaman (only example I can think of at the moment) wouldn’t be here. Heretic, Shaman and their ‘ilk’ joined the board at around 14 or 15. They were (and still are) mature and had (have) great insight. Would have been a shame to have not have them (and their ilk) on the boards if I had raised the join age to 16. On the other hand, there are a lot of immature people out their between the ages of 13 and 53. The discussion board self regulates depending upon the majority at the time. On one day, a silly post will go unnoticed. On another day, a silly post will generate a fifty post discussion.
Banning. I don’t ban people for speaking their mind. Banning happens when I get tired of deleting posts over and over again, particularly after I’ve sent gentle reminders over and over again to read and review the rules. Seriously, if you get two or three PMs from me asking you to read the ‘rules’ and you notice that your posts are disappearing with great rapidity, this would be a clue that if you are about to get banned. Also, repeated posts dropping the ‘f-bomb’ will do it, too. I'm sure I've mentioned in the rules, it doesn't matter if you are a moderator or have been here for a million years or everyone loves you, if you can't follow the rules, then this isn't the place for you. Please don't jerk me around.
Then again, I’ve also temporarily banned people because they are in a passion and just need a bit of time to cool down.
How long does a ban last? Forever or until the ban log gets so full that I can’t stand it anymore. It varies between six months to two years. It isn’t a punishment. It is a vacation for me from deleting your posts.
Deleting posts and moderating. The moderators are doing a great job. I appreciate what they do. This isn’t fun. I get at least one e-mail or pm a day (usually four or five) from folks asking why I’ve deleted their post. Most times, I can’t recall the post I deleted and can only send them to the rules. There is not one person in this thread that hasn’t had a post deleted by me. Most of you know why I’ve deleted your post and if you don’t know why, you generally live with it. Those who can’t live with it try to debate me. I’m not going to debate anymore. I’ve spent half a day trying to politely respond to requests for why a post was deleted. The site didn’t get updated. The post is gone and more often than not, I don’t recall the post. Seriously, get over it, don’t take it personally and honestly in the entire time I’ve been doing this, I’ve never been angry at any one. Exasperated, yes. Angry, no.
Posts that aren’t deleted. This thread is a great example. Click ‘all’ and read through. There is at least one or more off topic posts. Why weren’t they deleted? The post wasn’t deleted because I didn’t catch it in time and the discussion progressed and deleting the post would render the thread incomprehensible. So, sometimes off topic posts creep in. If the thread gets back on track, then I let it slide.
Stupid posts that aren’t deleted. See above. Sometimes a silly post will actually evolve into a good discussion. I let it go.
Lastly, there has been talk of the ‘failed’ experiment of removing all discussions other than discussions of scripts. I didn’t see it as a failure. The point of this discussion board is not to have gobs and gobs of people join. I’m not looking to expand. The discussion board exists because I enjoy reading scripts. I enjoy reading about upcoming movies. I enjoy poetry. I enjoy ‘silly’ talk sometimes. If by the removal or addition of a discussion topic, people leave, so be it. You (yes, I’m talking to you) are here and post because you enjoy what you read and you enjoy sharing. If it isn’t fun, stop. Different threads, different discussions.
Namaste
Don
P.S. Seriously, Merlot and Discussion Board are a bad mix.
Some of you have mentioned the problem of people dropping off scripts but never really participating on the site. I think you should have at least 100 posts on this site before you can submit a script. By that stage other members have had a chance to get to know you a bit and know if you’re someone who's prepared to review other people’s work.
As for the people who want to act like trolls; I say give them enough rope and they'll hang themselves. I've seen a few BS threads going on over the last few days, but I didn't bother weighing in because I didn't think the instigators deserved the attention. I reckon if you’re having a bad day, you should have a day off posting, so you don't poison your relationships with the other members.
Anyway, I love this site because after I left film school 6 years ago to support my family, I thought I had to give up my dream of being a screenwriter, but when I found this site that dream became possible again. The people I've connected with here are worth their weight in gold and I’m grateful for meeting every one of them. So hang in there it’s worth it.
I have a simple final thought of my own after reading the entire thread (Work was a bore and my chair is a comfort) I thought about this thread a lot and in the back of my mind I knew it would turn ugly and it went as well as can be expected. SimplyScripts Junior someone was confused, everyone else just passed over the idea.
Alas in Don we trust, if not for him where would we be?
Change the board to a pay service, 2 bucks for a lifetime membership unless you're banned. From now on because we're all still here but this will cut down the numerous flow of members none of us want and only serious people will come in.
Alas in Don we trust, if not for him where would we be?
Change the board to a pay service, 2 bucks for a lifetime membership unless you're banned. From now on because we're all still here but this will cut down the numerous flow of members none of us want and only serious people will come in.
Yeah, but then it would cut down a few too many members. Some of them whom you DO want to come in. I could be a professional screenwriter come to read other people's stuff, and of course to let people read their stuff. But perhaps -- he doesn't trust this site -- or, maybe, he just has problems with his computer about paying those kinds of things.
Also, I don't think that a price-tag should be put on what loads of people love. There are about 1000 people signed up now. I'm sure that lots of them are here to actually share their work and review others. Even if it is just 2 dollars, people don't want to finish their screenplay ready for people to read, and then find that the once place which is best at doing that makes you pay. Especially if it's just because of a few/quite a few people who aren't really interested...
$2 really isn't that much, I don't think it would break anyone's pocket book, but how would you pay, like send a check in the mail, I don't have a credit card so I couldn't pay that way.
Paypal my friend and those guys could visit the site just not sign up, Don won't go with it. Just a suggestion and not really to be taken seriously at this time.
Kevin Smith's message board does it that way, I have an account. He hasn't had a problem getting the vast amount of members he has, that's all I'm saying.
I've read every post on this thread. The only thing I want to say is this: George, I'm readying Vengeance. April rewrite. My comments will be up in a day or two. And I will post my script soon. I am writing. Thank you. That's why I'm here.
$2 really isn't that much, I don't think it would break anyone's pocket book, but how would you pay, like send a check in the mail, I don't have a credit card so I couldn't pay that way.
I don't think the cost is the point. I think that by putting a price on membership, you would find that only the serious people would make the effort to send the cash.
Well, this is an interesting thread. This problem has been raised many times before, and there�s no easy solution. I honestly don�t think the message board has changed that much in the year or so I�ve been here, and I don�t think the influx of kids is entirely to blame for the problems we�re seeing. I visit a lot of writing forums and this is my favorite, mostly because of the people here and the fact that you can easily read and comment on anyone�s work. That said, it�s probably the least �professional� of all the writer�s boards I go to. I don�t mean that as an insult to Don, or any of the members here. I mean that in the sense that I�ll often sift through five pages of the most recent posts and find nothing but mindless banter that bears little or no relation to the craft of writing. I enjoy a lot of the banter around here but, first and foremost, I�m here to sharpen my skills as a screenwriter, and hopefully share some of the things I�ve learned with other writers. Wesley does a great job of modding the boards and it�s not his fault the WIP board gets out of hand. I think it�s more to do with the nature of the board itself and the fact that Wesley seems to be fighting the battle alone. We need more mods who are willing to rule with an iron fist. We also need sticky threads that clearly state the purpose of every board and that off-topic posts will be deleted. These rules need to be enforced. In general, I�d like to see more writing related topics on the board. I�d like to see Screenwriting Class become the most popular sub forum on the site. I�d like to see the WIP board become a place for people to critique loglines and evaluate the salability of concepts, to encourage creative thinking, to identify the strengths and weaknesses of an idea or concept and suggest ways to improve. I�d like people to think before they start new threads. I�d like to see a Script Pages section where people can post a 5 page sample of their script for critique (ala Done Deal and Absolute Write). I�d like to see that section properly moderated. This way, new writers can fix any mistakes inherent in their writing before they post an entire script. I�d like to see a private office sub forum that works on invitation only, so a group of likeminded writers can get together and discuss the craft away from the distractions of the main board. I�d like to see industry people come to the forum and find a group of writers willing to learn from their experiences, not scare them away with childish arguments fueled by their own frustrations and petty jealousies (this happens on other forums, not just this one). I�d like people to be more mature and not allow themselves to be drawn into arguments and personal attacks. We�re all guilty of this at times, and disputes are inevitable in any walk of life, it just takes a bit of maturity to walk away from a potential argument before it starts.
I'd like a forum where you can paste a bunch of text into a post and not have your apostrophe's show up as little question marks. Grrrr...
I'd like a forum where you can paste a bunch of text into a post and not have your apostrophe's show up as little question marks. Grrrr...
Everything was so doable and reasonable until you hit the last one, but you know you can't have everything...
I stand by my former comment of the idea that we're all mods if we want to be. There are way to curb off-topic discussions other than deleting them. We just need to stick ourselves out there and not be afraid to say something about it. Want an example? I gave this a shot on the thread for a Power Rangers script. Yeah, Power Rangers. Don curbed the discussion, I left a review, someone decided to leave it sucks again, and I dropped in to ask how. See what happened.
Well, I guess I’ll leave my final thoughts before the board gets locked:
It doesn’t much matter since Don has already stated that he doesn’t care. This is his site. It is the way he wants it. He doesn’t care to change with any expansion. It’s his site. It’s is choice. I think he made his point well; this site is not here for business purposes. So no serious writer should consider this site something to be used as such. If I want anything to change, I will have to change. That’s the message I got.
There are some things I would like to clear up:
1) First off, some people got the impression that there is a desire to rid the site of young people. Another thread calls it an “anti-youth” movement. Nothing could be further from the truth. But this is a site where both adults and kids frequent. To some (not all) of the kids, this is a vast playground. For me (and some other adults), I’m not getting the stimulation or interaction I would like.
I was only expressing my feelings and seeking a solution. And I don’t see anything wrong with that. And I stand by it.
2) I am concerned about the reputation of the site. And I think it’s a legitimate concern….for me. Maybe not for everyone. And obviously it’s not for Don. It really depends on how you look at it. There are some (like me) who think this site can achieve greater things. That’s just the way I am. I recognize the potential of something and I want to help it reach its pinnacle. It’s just the way I am. I dream big.
But for Don and most others, it’s not that way. It’s completely different. For Don, this place is a place where anyone, regardless of any factor, can post his/her work and have a chance of being read and appreciated by someone.
It’s an admirable intention. In many ways, far more admirable than mine. I want the site to be for serious writers. I want it to be a place where industry professionals can come and see that the greatest writers today are not necessarily in Hollywood or New York. I want to eradicate those that stand in the way of that dream. But that’s my dream.
Don’s dream is more potent. More alive. And in many ways more important. More advanced.
Our views oppose each other on this issue in places and intersect in others:
We both agree that this site should be for anyone who has a real passion for the craft of writing. Where we differ is that I want to screen out those who do not. Don’s philosophy is that that can never effectively be done. And by effectively, I don’t just mean possible - I also mean fairly.
Don is a wise man - who speaks from experience. I respect his “opinion” if it’s prudent to call it such under the circumstances. After all, he is the almighty in this domain.
I understand completely Don’s view on this. And it does negate my own.
As I see it, the only thing that can be done to improve is really to follow George’s very considerate recommendations on these matters. And if you get tired of some of the kids on occasion, well, you’ll just have to go elsewhere to mingle with adults.
And definitely, do not refer business contacts to anywhere here but the script itself.
To be honest, any script that I will consider shopping, I do not post here. Yes, I may send my draft to some writers here as I respect their ability and opinions, but once I've finished a script and I think it's good enough to shop, I won't post here.
What I do post here is scripts/shorts that I want to share with everyone, either to share a cool story/idea or get help with certain areas of my writing abilities. Wether this process is helps or hinders my development, that's my decision.
At the current moment, I can't see this site developing into an arena for industry folk (I'm talking about comparing it to sites like Inktip) where producers/agents can search out scripts and contact the writers. I just don't think Don wants to create himself a full time job and if he did, I'm sure he'd have to set up a membership/fee structure.
What I do consider this site to be, is an excellent source of ideas, scripts, resources and contacts with fellow writers. Wether the writers are developing screenwriters or just writing for fun, I've learned a hell of a lot since my 2 years here, and I don't want that to change. I also hope that I have contributed just as much as I have taken.
I'm not really worried about the reputation of the site, because I can't think of using the sites reputation to advance my development. I can't see a situation where I would point an agent or producer to a script here (not being negative about SS here). This is just a forum for me to collaborate and chit chat with fellow writers, read other's works and be a great source of varied resources.
I guess, to wrap up my thoughts. I think Don planned and launched this site for the purpose off reading scripts, no matter what the quality is. To change that to a place where industry people browse would probably change the basis of what Don thinks is fun and why he spends so much of his free time administrating.
Interesting thread. Honestly, I had no idea things were getting so out of hand. I rarely check in on non-script related or non-craft related sub-forums; I figure this site is about screenwriting, so I'll stick to screenwriting threads. Not that I'm an elitist and don't think anyone here warrants me socializing with them -- but simply because, being a member of numerous message boards, I've seen a good number of them fall apart due to "general" discussion or threads which have nothing to do with the the purpose of the board. Me, I come here to read scripts and have mine read, because I want to learn and perfect my writing ability. It's quid pro quo...gotta give to get...you scratch my back, etc. and any other similarly appropriate cliche.
I've been coming to this board for roughly a year, give or take. And the reason I don't have a comparatively high post count to others who've been here an equal amount of time is because I rarely stray outside of the script-related topics. I'm not trying to come off as an unsociable ass -- I'm actually a pretty friendly guy and can get along with just about anybody -- but honestly, I couldn't care less what someone's favorite band is, or what their favorite TV show is when it comes to this particular website. This site has a purpose, and it mirrors my own purpose in coming here -- to help me be a better screenwriter. The second someone discussing their favorite band stands to make me a wealthy man, I'll start giving a damn
Wow...I probably seem like a selfish and indifferent prick right now LOL -- but seriously, in the year I've been coming here I've always seen this site as a place for aspiring screenwriters to hone their crafts, to learn from the mistakes of others and maybe even have someone else learn from their own mistakes. Anything else which goes on is, quite frankly, none of my concern. If it won't help me be a better screenwriter, I don't have time for it.
Which brings me to a notion which has already been suggested by others in this thread, but I'm going to take it one step farther...
...if someone's being an asshole and starting trouble and posting ridiculously immature and chidlish replies, there's no rule or etiquette which requires you to reply and lower yourself to that level of childishness. Honestly, life's just too damned short to waste on someone who's only going to piss you off. I'd rather just be happy and become a better screenwriter; anything else which goes on here that doesn't play into that, I honestly could not care less about. Some punk member's being a jerk and causing trouble? That's all on him, he can't teach me anything, so I won't waste my precious time on 'im.
As for this site in general, I owe Don a big thanks. I have two scripts posted on this website. Right now I"m negotating an option on one of them, and the other is currently in the hands of three production companies -- each of them legitimate, and each of whom contacted ME because they read my script(s) HERE -- which never would have happened if Don, in his obvious generosity and willingness to look out for others who share his passion to become a successful screenwriter, had never opened this website.
So, Don -- thank you for this website. Think I'll go read a script now...
When i first clicked on this thread i thought maybe it was a discussion on Porn scripts. Much to my relief it wasnt. Hehe After reading this thread and a few others - it occured to me that i have all this dirty laundry that needs to be taken out. I wonder why that thought crossed my mind?
Breanne, I can suggest a different forum for you if you like (not too sure if you're already aware of it)...I will have to you warn you that it's pretty cut throat there...
It doesn’t sound familiar right off. And this is really the only site where I spend any time at a message board. Most of the sites I frequent don’t even have a message board.
But it does sound like what I’m looking for. Please go ahead and pm me the details so I can check it out. Not to worry about the down-to business aspect. I’ve got plenty of experience dealing with cut throats and I prefer a more professional protocol when it comes to serious matters.
I havn't posted a script for nearly a year now (not including the horrendous Hitler and the War) mainly because I havn't written my script yet. I review scripts that I think will be interesting, not scripts because I want a review from that writer (usually).
its ashame theres a consensus among some of the writers here that this site is falling out.
i have to disagree. there are some damn good scripts on this site. im reading some as we speak. this is a talented group here. the feedback boards all stay on topic - for the most part - and the criticism is constructive. seems okay to me for the most part
its ashame theres a consensus among some of the writers here that this site is falling out.
Well, the word consensus means a broad majority so I wouldn’t say there’s any consensus. This thread is really just a discussion about the direction of the board as a whole and was started because the site is so treasured by participants. Because it is such a good board.
I too love coming here and spending time. In fact, I would say I spend about as much time here as possible.
When you love something, you take steps to preserve what’s good, to protect it, and to enhance it if possible. That’s why this thread was started. It’s just a discussion.
I love this site, and everyone who visits it. None of my friends write. I finally found a place where I can talk about my hobby and skill.
But some people here like provoking, and I don't like taking part in that. So that's why I usually wont post on these threads. By proking I mean they will bash writers... (A.K.A. the guy who wrote that Power Rangers Script.)
Just because you are a better writer doesn't mean you can push around the new writers. Give them constructive criticism so they can get better. You should realize that we were all noobies at one point.
Just because you are a better writer doesn't mean you can push around the new writers. Give them constructive criticism so they can get better. You should realize that we were all noobies at one point.
well said.
i think it's important to point out not all newbies to the board are newbies to writing.
I love this site, and everyone who visits it. None of my friends write. I finally found a place where I can talk about my hobby and skill.
I hear ya. None of my friends write either, some don't even read, and one reads but finds scrrenplay format hard to concentrate on, which makes it difficult to get critiques. And if I do manage to get critiques, it's usually something like "It was funny", or "it was good". yeah, thanks.
i think it's important to point out not all newbies to the board are newbies to writing.
I agree, although this is usually discovered through the quality of scripts as opposed to quality of posts.
One thing I've noticed throughout this thread is the mention of directing a producer here. Why would I direct a producer to the discussion board? If a producer is interested in reading my script after seeing my query, I would simply email them a copy of the script. If for some reason they were interested in seeing more of my work, I would suggest other works which I could also email or, in a rare circumstance, direct them to the SS main page where they could search my name.
The SS main page and discussion forum are two completely different entities. The main page being a place for us to showcase our scripts, and the forum for submitters of said scripts to get to know one another.
I've purposely not contributed to this thread up until now for a reason, to see how this community dealt with the issue and what, if any, conclusions could be gleaned from this excellent debate.
I'd like to offer a big thank you to Breanne who originally started this thread. Her contribution as a writer to SimplyScripts are beyond compare. Breanne not only is a wonderful screenwriter, who has a distinctive and original voice as a story-teller, but she offers equally as much with her insight, intelligence and yes, her humor too.. Breanne, as always, made some fine points in the introduction to this thread and I personally would like to thank her for the points she made, her valued support, and her kindness..
I'd also like to offer my thanks to other members of SimplyScripts, George, Bert, Phil, Andy, Wes, Greg, Pia and many other I've forgot to mention, for their input, their thoughts and their wisdom regarding the complex nature of this board.
But most of all, I'd like to thank those members who originally stimulated this debate by their unacceptable behavior and attitudes. I appreciate your apologies and I accept them with the good grace in which they were given.
I'd also like to thank Don for his patience and understanding and now realize I can learn a lot from a man like you. Your intentions, with regards to the existence of SimplyScripts, are honorable and I too believe you strike the right balance for all members whatever the age or level of competence.
For my part, I’ll continue to frequent this site, offer my services to read and review screenplays short or long and to provide constructive criticism and honest unbiased opinion with the view of helping others to achieve their aims and goals in life. This is a fantastic site provided by Don and maybe this debate can wind up now so we can all return to the main pleasure of visiting this site, to read, review and post our comments so we can all grow and develop as writers..
I too offer my apologies and hope the matter is now closed.. Or should I say locked?
One thing I've noticed throughout this thread is the mention of directing a producer here. Why would I direct a producer to the discussion board?
The SS main page and discussion forum are two completely different entities. The main page being a place for us to showcase our scripts, and the forum for submitters of said scripts to get to know one another.
There have also been numerous mentions in other threads of scripts being discovered here by producers, directors and others in the business. Those scripts were probably found on the Unproduced Scripts page rather than the message board and most likely not under General Chat.
There have also been numerous mentions in other threads of scripts being discovered here by producers, directors and others in the business. Those scripts were probably found on the Unproduced Scripts page rather than the message board and most likely not under General Chat.
I can attest to that, since I received a handful of emails regarding High Stakes after I submitted a revision.
There have also been numerous mentions in other threads of scripts being discovered here by producers, directors and others in the business. Those scripts were probably found on the Unproduced Scripts page rather than the message board and most likely not under General Chat.
I've chosen the more aggressive route of getting my scripts into the hands of directors by actually looking for them. I can't depend on them coming here.
BTW, I have someone interested in producing Price Check on Fiilm Noir. He's done one or two period pieces before and is figuring out how feasible it would be.
I've chosen the more aggressive route of getting my scripts into the hands of directors by actually looking for them. I can't depend on them coming here.
You being agressive? I always imagined you as this ultra soft and loving guy, showering people with praise and warm fuzzies.
My approach is different as well. I'm worming my way in the sweet and sugary way. It's working ok so far. In fact I'm getting so good on the phone, I'm thinking seriously about getting a 900 number. Whatever it takes.
You being agressive? I always imagined you as this ultra soft and loving guy, showering people with praise and warm fuzzies.
Do freshly-killed kitties and bunnies count as warm fuzzies (they are still warm)? If so, you got that part right.
Quoted from tomson
My approach is different as well. I'm worming my way in the sweet and sugary way. It's working ok so far. In fact I'm getting so good on the phone, I'm thinking seriously about getting a 900 number. Whatever it takes.
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