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Just stumbled across this "getting to know you" thread and I guess sometimes I do things backwards. It's kind of like reading a logline for me...if I like the logline, I want to read the script. So, I've been bouncing around the boards a bit. I've been here since about a week before the OWC...stumbled across it by googling "scripts to read online". I love this site. I've always loved the movies...and writing. I have nothing produced. Infact, I've only finished two shorts, my first being the OWC. I now know it would have helped if I spent more time reading but I just wanted to dive in, sorry. I like to write in Panera Bread ...I know "cliche'" as someone put it already but in my house lives the wicked father-in-law so I stay OUT as much as possible!
I'm 43, and my daughter has informed me that I'm too old to get into this stuff. Currently, I live in Jacksonville Florida. I have learned a lot in the short time I've been in here reading. I enjoy the most the script of the day, because it's short enough to read everyday and it's a good place for a beginner like myself to start....welcome any advice from everyone here. You guys and girls are very talented. I feel lucky to be amongst!
I hope 43 is not too old to get started. I am 45 and began less than a year ago. I have no experience relevant to the film industry whatsoever. I ran and owned bars the last 20 plus years. And I am more of an ESPN guy than a movie guy.
On the plus side, being in our 40s we bring a little more life experience to things than someone starting out in their 20s. At least I tell myself that anyway!
I kind of got my start with the OWC too. I had written 2 features right before that, but without any feedback, I didn't really understand many of the things I was doing wrong, especially in the area of proper screenwriting and formatting. That OWC was my first short, and I got a lot of helpful feedback. That's where the learning started.
I can relate something that might be helpful. When I began writing, I looked up scripts of films I knew in order to get a sense of the writing. Problem is that I didn't know the difference between shooting scripts and spec scripts, so I was badly led astray. That's how you can end up with long, novelistic action blocks, which are not appropriate for spec scripts.
I sight that's helped me recently is Scriptshadow.com. It's just a blog where the blogger analyzes scripts, but if you can get your hands on the scripts, now you're looking at currently formatted and written spec scripts. Gives you a much better idea.
Thanks for the advice ...marked that link too in my favs and will check it out. I did get final draft so that helps a bit with the formatting. But the chunky paragraphs you were mentioning--one of my problems. So, I'll work to do better...and agree with you on the age/experience thing! Thank you for all the advice...greatly appreciated! ~dena~
It's refreshing to see some intro posts on the forums.
Welcome to the chaos that is the SS forum. It's a stellar resource for those with initiative and fortitude. Quid pro quo and a thick skin go a long way here. A conflagration of insecurity and ego awaits the bold who tread here. However, the lessons to be gleaned to hone your craft are immense.
I started here reading scripts by *CONTRIBUTING MEMBERS for several weeks. I waited before posting my own stuff until I earned some credibility as a reader. It was a great spring board into receiving feedback on my fledgling efforts.
Enjoy!
Regards, E.D.
* contributing members read and post constructive criticism on a regular basis
LATEST NEWS CineVita Films is producing a short based on my new feature!
Like Brett, I started reading and posting for a few weeks before posting my work. But unlike Brett, I didn't know how to spot contributing members, so I reviewed random scripts. Not very effective.
I did review a script called, I think, Groundead. It wasn't at all an example of fine writing, but it was a concept that I thought had promise, and there were some pretty funny moments. That was my first extensive review, where I gave lengthy remarks and suggestions. I was kind of annoyed the guy did not return the favor, but he did have some good luck. A short time later, his script got picked up. I have no idea by who or what status it's in, all I know is he had to pull the script. Maybe that one will actually make it.
Well, it does seem that there is a touch of mid life "issues" on this thread. Sounds good to me.
I am fresh around here as well having only joined up in August.
I'm 40, based in the Island of Jersey, UK, and have only started writing this year. I have a lot to learn but SS is just a great place to learn. This OWC was only my second, the first was only six weeks ago. In that one I thought I had a good script but I lost my readers and generally it took a knocking. I wasn't sure I would enter again but I'm pleased I did.
Six weeks later and things have improved. To me that's the result of reading, reviewing and learning,along with OWC reviews.
If you're here it is probably for a reason. I don't want to go all deep about it but for a starter you probably like stories, want to express yourself, and have a go at something you shouldn't! etc etc. Hope you keep going.
The Elevator Most Belonging To Alice - Semi Final Bluecat, Runner Up Nashville Inner Journey - Page Awards Finalist - Bluecat semi final Grieving Spell - winner - London Film Awards. Third - Honolulu Ultimate Weapon - Fresh Voices - second place IMDb link... http://www.imdb.com/name/nm7062725/?ref_=tt_ov_wr