The 08/09 One Week Challenge Theme and Genre!

This month's theme and genre:

Genre:  Romantic Drama/Comedy (Romantic Dramedy)

Theme:  This piece of music.

You can download the song here or listen to music in a player here.
This music has been graciously provided by Norm of The DrabbleCast

You must write a script and lyrics (to the music provided),  (properly formatted) 12 pages or less (courier 12 point font) ... meaning script and lyrics are not to exceed 12 pages.

Submit your script here by Friday, August 28 at 11:59 pm e.d.t..  Please do not put your real name on your script, however, please use your real name and real e-mail address on the submission form below.  (After the exercise closes you can either have your script removed or resubmit the script with your name on it).  Please put "(c) Copyright 2009" on your script.

This is a free exercise.  There is no prize for winning (after all, we all win if we have fun).  There will not be an official judging for the best script (after all, we all win if we have fun).
All submitted scripts will be posted anonymously for a few weeks before the writers are revealed.

The Schedule:  August 21 11:59 pm edt - theme and genre revealed

August 28 11:59 pm edt - submissions due

August 29 - 31 - scripts posted without author's names

August 31 - September 5th - review, critique, comment, guess who wrote what

September 11th (ish) - audio presentation of one selected script presented by iScript.com.

Very special thanks to iScript.com for sponsoring the challenge and judging the final scripts.

Jaw meet floor.

I'll read every one.

~Pete

Don't normally ask stupid questions but, is it my understanding that the lyrics are part of the 12 page?

Very interesting Don!

This is a challenge.

Good topic.

Yep, this is a fantastic challenge. I still can't download the song.

I can imagine that song playing over the end credits of 'Frostbite'. Amongst the ripped throats and blood spattered snow.

Quoted from elis

Don't normally ask stupid questions but, is it my understanding that the lyrics are part of the 12 page?

The lyrics are part of the 12 pages.

Quoted from elis

Don't normally ask stupid questions but, is it my understanding that the lyrics are part of the 12 page?

There are no stupid questions.

Your question is perfectly valid. The lyrics are part of the 12 pages.

Don

Thank you Don and Michael.

so the lyrics, at some part of the script, will be written out? And the idea is for the reader/listener to play the song at a certain time?

Quoted from stevie

so the lyrics, at some part of the script, will be written out?

Yes

Quoted from stevie

And the idea is for the reader/listener to play the song at a certain time?

If you'd like. It is your script.

Don

Don, can it be an animation?

Quoted from Don

There are no stupid questions.

You obviously need to hang out on these boards a little more....

As for the challenge, it is probably not my speed, but brilliant nonetheless. Very refreshing to see a fresh spin put onto this. Great work.

I know that some of the members have even been practicing dashing off a bit of poetry at rocket speed. That experience should serve them well.

Here's some clarification for everyone.

The music should used as a tool to create lyrics.  How and when you use those lyrics in the script is up to you.  Don left stuff up for interpretation - so interpret.  There's is no right way or wrong way to use the music.

For that matter you don't have to assume that the given music will only play once - it may repeat twice or more, making the song longer.  You would want probably want to avoid more than twice because you want to leave some room for the story - which is always very important.

It is not essential but you should probably try to have the song be an integral part of the story (Ok, this is from me because it will piss me off if I see it just thrown in there for no reason).

It is usual for lyrics to be written as dialogue.

Hope this helps.

do we have to create the song or could it be an existing song?

Quoted from michel

do we have to create the song or could it be an existing song?

You must create lyrics for the provided music.

You can find the music you must use at this link

Is it okay if the lyrics doesn't fit too good on the music provided?

Quoted from Dude

Is it okay if the lyrics doesn't fit too good on the music provided?

Do the best you can. It's meant to be challenging. I'm sure that even the people who think their lyrics fit perfectly will find that a number of people say they don't. Wasn't it George Bernard Shaw who once said something like "rhyming in English is always a losing proposition"?

Interesting challenge. I think it's important to clarify that this is a screenwriting challenge and not a songwriting challenge though. Some people may come up with really good scripts but lousy lyrics. I would want those people to still enter and get some slack about their lyrics. Lyrics could always be re-written if the script was eventually picked up by anyone.

Ste

You've covered the questuions I had Michael. was wondering if the lyrics would be dialogue.

one more 'silly' query: is the script to be an actual script or a script showing the film maker making the film and using the song? Does that make sense?

Dam you, Don. Dam you.

Quoted from stevie

one more 'silly' query: is the script to be an actual script or a script showing the film maker making the film and using the song? Does that make sense?

Now that made me laugh! The script has to be an actual script. The film maker making the film is background information - though if you can think of a way to use it...

Whoa! There was me thinking it was going to be a horror challenge.

Nice spin! This will be interesting for sure!

Read this, and thought really good idea.

Heard the music, and thought: wow, the options are endless. Perfectly pitched for a bit of romance. Now, if only I were French.

Huge kudos to Don for this challenge.

Andrew

Okay, here's the thing I don't understand about the formatting.

Say you've written the lyrics, and you have a melody for them which fits nicely with the piece of music we've been given. How do you include that melody in the script? Do you write it out, note for note? Or do you just write the lyrics, which won't really seem to fit without the melody they go with?

Quoted from JonnyBoy

You just include the lyrics. They should fit into this piece of music. There is always going to be some different interpretations here, there is going to be people that hear what you hear and people that don't. Don't worry too much about that. Do your best, have fun. You aren't going to have the opportunity to do something like this that often, it's a great learning experience.

Quoted Text

A Filmmaker has this piece of music and needs lyrics and a script to fit around the melody. In other words, the director needs a script and a song with lyrics.

Just clarifying a point:

Does a character have to be specifically a director? Would a guy who is trying - for example - to write lyrics for his dead girlfriend count? It's just that the theme is a bit vague as to what's explicitly allowed, or not. I understand this is open to interpretation, but the parameters are a little loose. If that means freedom to basically write a script, but the focus is to incorporate a set of lyrics, without the need for it to be a filmmaker then I understand. If not, then I think a refining of the theme is required.

The bit that has really threw me is the "script". So, is he/she supposed to be directing a script that includes this piece of music. Basically, I need a bit extra information on whether this needs to be set in the film world, and whether we're working with specific characters, in certain situations.

Andrew

Quoted from Andrew

The information about the film maker is background information, it is a description of your task. You do not need to write a story about a film maker. All you need to do is write a romantic comedy/drama script that contains the lyrics.

Quoted from mcornetto

That's what I needed - cleared it up. Thank you.

Andrew

Quoted from stevie

one more 'silly' query: is the script to be an actual script or a script showing the film maker making the film and using the song? Does that make sense?

Quoted from mcornetto

Now that made me laugh! The script has to be an actual script. The film maker making the film is background information - though if you can think of a way to use it...

That is a valid comment. Re-reading the Theme it could be taken both ways.
Only to add to everyone's confusion I am sure :P

Quoted from elis

That is a valid comment. Re-reading the Theme it could be taken both ways.
Only to add to everyone's confusion I am sure :P

It still made me laugh, valid or not. However, I can see why people are making this assumption. We will probably see a few scripts about film makers in the bunch.

the lyrics are the easiest part.
It is like writing your plot.
If you write the lyrics first then your story can be rotated around it :)

It would be interesting to compare notes on how people approached this at the end of the challenge.

Right now, though, I'm off to bed. If no one answers your questions while I'm away, I'll be sure to answer them in the morning.

Night.

Quoted from mcornetto

I read the theme the same way that Andrew did, and assumed it had to be written about the film maker. I think some people who don't read the whole thread will draw the same conclusion and there will be a few scripts about the fim maker. Is there a way to clarify it better in the original post?

Quoted from Trojan

I've updated/clarified the theme.

Don

Don,

Promotion that Baltis would be proud of.

I shan't be taking part though. But then, I would say that wouldn't I?

Re

Quoted from Don

I've updated/clarified the theme.
Don

Cheers Don, that makes it a lot less confusing.

Hey everyone, just found this,a s I'm going through a big move and internet is sketchy unitl I'm all moved in completely.

I tried toread over all the posts, and I'm still a bit confused here (mostly by other commenst about a director or soemthing?).  Did I miss something here, or has something changed?

The "piece of music" is 56 seconds long, meaning that even if it was "all lyrics", we're not talking about much.  And assuming that some of the tune is just melody, then obviously, we're talkign about even less lyrics.

Does this make sense?  Am I on the correct path here?

Do you think Balt will mind if I write Frostbite:  The Musical?

As I understand it, we need to write a Romantic Comedy/Drama script with any type of characters you like, it doesn't have to be a film director which some people believed. During this script, we have to write lyrics to the 56 second long tune that fit with the story. That's how I think it's supposed to be done.

Please tell me if I'm wrong about this.

Quoted from Brian M

Yes, you are correct, except for the 56 second part. Your song can be as long or as short as you wish. You just need to write a song that fits the melody provided in the 56 second bit.

Quoted from Don

You must write a script and a song with lyrics. properly formatted, 12 pages or less (courier 12 point font) including the song.

Don, shouldn't it simply read:-
You must write a script and lyrics (to the music provided). (properly formatted) 12 pages or less (courier 12 point font) ... meaning script and lyrics are not to exceed 12 pages.

AMAZING HOW THINGS CAN GET SO TWISTED AROUND :P

Quoted from elis

Elis,

Yes, that is correct. I've updated the topic.

Don

Thanks Don! Everything's clear.

Wow, that melody line is really hard to pick out of there. It primarily sounds like the background for a song and I guess the lyrics are just supposed to loosely fit over the background parts playing. I caught a snip of a melodic line but it didn't run through the whole piece. I was expecting a piece that had a clear melody to follow.

Naturally, I'm popping it on my iPod to listen to it some more, but I suspect we'll have a wide range of lyrics depending on the melody that people pick out...and that melody is quite short.

In some ways, I made out almost a TSO melody (which is one of my all time faves!), that is very universal in nature.

It will be very interesting.

I am in the process of a montrous move, so it's going to be tough for me, but I'm going to try and put something together.

Best of luck to all!!!!

Well, I'm in the middle of writing a feature at high speed, and yet, I may distract myself for a moment for this. I mean, I wrote something for the first OWC in what? Four hours?

George, was just checking out your mini bio for the Fempiror book. Man, you could write a whole musical for this challenge!!

I was surprised at your photo (no, not fucking daniel craig...). I always pictured you as this older mentor type of guy. sort of like an SS Ben Kenobi.
shit, I'm probably older than you!

,,,,just looked at your profile...34!! Technically I could be your dad.

Oh boy!!! :-/
this melody IS addictive!

Quoted from George Willson

Agreed. It's definitely more of an accompaniment, something to lay a melody on top of.

do the lyrics have to be absolutely in English?

Quoted from michel

do the lyrics have to be absolutely in English?

No. But I think more of the people who are reading would understand and appreciate them if they were.

Wow, OK. One week? Right on it. Good challange Don. The melody kinda has a "we did all we could but she's gone" feel to it.

Thanks for a week of sleepless nights. Really apperciate it. :-)

Shawn.....><

Hi all. I'm a newbie and very excited about this challenge. I am a little confused though. I know it's up to interpretation but if the song is just a background song, like a soundtrack that fits in with the mood of the story, is that okay? Or does it have to be more of a physical part of the story like something someone is singing or writing or purposely listening to (like in their car)??? Did that make sense?

I love this idea by the way. I'm a member of a local film group and just last month I proposed a contest where musicians submit a 3 minute song and we would pick finalists and then post the songs for screenwriters to come up with a story inspired by the song. Then we'll pick a winner and shoot it. :)

Welcome wannabe.

You need to write lyrics for the music. How you use the lyrics in the script is up to you.

Quoted from stevie

Not in a week, more than likely, but lyrics should be easy enough.

And yeah, I'm actually one of the more middle aged people round here. There are a LOT of youngsters, and the population kind of dwindles and it moves up the age groups. If you could be my dad, you're in a further minority than I am, but definitely not alone. In fact, you're in very good company.

But I do like that you felt I was much older. That does make me feel good.

Quoted from George Willson

I always thought you were a young whippersnapper, by crikey. ;-)

Looking forward to reading what you enter, if you enter.

Umm, If I submit a script for this and it turns out that everybody laughs their fucking asses off at my lyrics... May i kindly ask Don to remove my name from the script and put (Jeff)Dreamscales in its place for the unveiling???

Well... He said he might not have time to write...

James

Quoted from jwent6688

James,

When you initially submit the script, please do not put your name on it. We give a week or so for folks to guess who wrote what. If, however, at the end of that time period, you wish not to have your name revealed, I can remove the script and/or not reveal you as the true writer.

Don

Quoted from George Willson

Technically I could've had you at age 13...

And George Wilson does sound like an 'old' type name, if you get my drift.
Funny how we look at things like that, isn't it?

Quoted from Don

When you initially submit the script, please do not put your name on it. We give a week or so for folks to guess who wrote what.

Do we have to reveal our names when we review?

Don, I knew that. Was just making a joke.

So many of us are horror/ sci-fi/ slasher buffs that this is an extreme stray from our usual environment. Altough i understand, if we ever wanted to be comissioned writers this would be the circumstances we would often be faced with...

Pia brings about a good question... if we all review each others scripts, by process of elimination, we may figure out who wrote them. I wouldn't think of posting on my own script just to distract...

Anyways, If I write something, post it and it sucks, I will always stand by my work. Was just checking if Jeff was paying attention... James

I am paying as close attention as I can. In teh midst of a MONSTER move. I will do everythign in my feeble power to come with an entry here.

BTW, Most OWC'ers do post on tehir own entries to throw people off.

I will be posting as Balt for this OWC.

I will be posting as my pseudonym "me". That way no one will know it's "me".

It's never you when it's me.

Quoted from jwent6688

So many of us are horror/ sci-fi/ slasher buffs that this is an extreme stray from our usual environment.

This is why it is a 'challenge'. One of Phil's original intents in the challenge was to throw curves to put writers out of his/her comfort zone.

Quoted from jwent6688

Pia brings about a good question... if we all review each others scripts, by process of elimination, we may figure out who wrote them. I wouldn't think of posting on my own script just to distract...

A subscript to the challenge is figuring out who wrote what. After the 'guess' week, you will find that many writers will review their own work just to throw everyone off. This is part of the fun.

- Don

Quoted from Grandma Bear

Do we have to reveal our names when we review?

No, you may sign your review with any name you choose.

- Edward Amadeus Franco Smith

Quoted from Don

Edward Amadeus Franco Smith

Welcome to SS Edward! If you read a lot, you get read a lot.

Everyone here is friendly especially "me".

Looking forward to reading your Sci/Fi Space Stallion feature someday.

Pia :)

Quoted from Dreamscale

I will do everythign in my feeble power to come with an entry here.

BTW, Most OWC'ers do post on tehir own entries to throw people off.

I will be posting as Balt for tehi OWC.

Aah! The typos are out of control!!! :)

Hang in there, Jeff.

- Phileas Butterscotch Merryweather

Quoted from Dreamscale

I will do everythign in my feeble power to come with an entry here.
.

That might be tough. Most OWC scripts are far from erotic, but hey... maybe you're real easy.

Quoted from Grandma Bear

That might be tough. Most OWC scripts are far from erotic, but hey... maybe you're real easy.

He might be easy but he's having a hard time typing.

- "Big" Kev

Quoted from mcornetto

He might be easy but he's having a hard time typing.

- "Big" Kev

With one hand

me/Tommyp/Baltis

Quoted from stevie

With one hand

me/Tommyp/Baltis

Must be some "MONSTER"!

- Mother Teressa

I no longer have my deskset up and yes, you are all right...I'm having some typing issues. Not much time to look for my usual typos.

Never fear...my script will be typo free, unless I set it in Australia, and fail to use "eastern" or "western" correctly.

John Paul Gonads

Quoted from Don

This is why it is a 'challenge'. One of Phil's original intents in the challenge was to throw curves to put writers out of his/her comfort zone.

Well, I wil definitely be out of my comfort zone, but that IS what makes it interesting. I'm in. It may be the most awful lyrics to a song you've ever heard. But i'm in...

Jumping bald headed James palomina

Quoted from elis

Oh boy!!! :-/
this melody IS addictive!

It is! I really love the music and I think this is an amazing challenge. I will enjoy reading people's work and seeing how each person puts a different spin on the theme.

Sandra

this better not be some kind of subliminal mind control...if i go around humming this tune for the rest of my life, there will be consequences... :X

Quoted from slap shot

this better not be some kind of subliminal mind control...if i go around humming this tune for the rest of my life, there will be consequences... :X

too late :P I'm doing it already.

One quick Question.
Are we restricted to a particular type of comedy?
Can it be black humour for example?

Well, it's Romantic Comedy isn't it? I don't think black humour lies under that, and it might be looked down on by other readers if you did it, but have a go.

It can be black humour, yellow humour, red humour, orange humour. It can be a rainbow humour. It can be any type of humour you want to write, just make sure we laugh. ;-)

Wish I could get into this one, but I am very involved with a script that demands my attention.

I really wanted to do this though. Just not enough time and still finish what I am doing on a deadline.

Shawn....><

Quoted from mcornetto

It can be any type of humour you want to write, just make sure we laugh. ;-)

I just downloaded and read your Pumpink Revenge short and laughed... I guess it'll be a tough jury!! ;)

GOOD LUCK ALL! ;) ;D

Quoted from mcornetto

It can be black humour, yellow humour, red humour, orange humour. It can be a rainbow humour. It can be any type of humour you want to write, just make sure we laugh. ;-)

Now that is far more of a challenge than writing lyrics to a 58-second piece of music...will you settle for an amused smile?

I don't think I'll run it because, IMO, the main problem is it's practically impossible to establish a complete dramedy in 12 pages (or less), those kinds of stories are only effective in features where you take time to settle the situations. Too bad...

BTW did the rules changed? On the submit page, you don't speak of logline anymore, but synopsis. With a synopsis you can't have any surprise by discovering the script page after page, especially when there is a twist. So is it really synopsis or just logline as usual? Just for everyone's information.

Michel 8)

Quoted from michel

Unfortunately, have to agree with Michel here. The whole formula of romantic comedy - 'meet cute' obstacle/impediment 'torn apart' 'reunite against all odds' - my ideas are running way too long for this - disappointed. :( Just mo, sure other seasoned 'short' writers will disagree -- which is great. Looking forward to the results.

Anyone need help with the lyrics? That against the rules? (probably)

Be economical and you can for certain fit your script in 12 pages. Romantic Comedy is one of the genres used for NYC Midnight Madness - which I believe is the inspiration for the OWC. People manage there just fine, year after year, and for some of them it's their first script.

So don't give up. It's supposed to be a challenge. Do the best you can and grow as a screenwriter.

Quoted from michel

BTW did the rules changed? On the submit page, you don't speak of logline anymore, but synopsis. With a synopsis you can't have any surprise by discovering the script page after page, especially when there is a twist. So is it really synopsis or just logline as usual? Just for everyone's information.

Michel 8)

Logline, please. Sorry. I'll get that fixed.

hey Michel,
You made me laugh...on one hand you are not able to submit but on the other you are already on the submit page ;D
Hmm...keeping us guessing till the end ? ;)

Is it 12 pages including the title page?

Or is it 12 pages of writing plus a title page, ie. a total of 13 pages?

Requesting a ruling on this please.

Gary

Quoted from grademan

Or is it 12 pages of writing plus a title page, ie. a total of 13 pages

yes it is

So a romantic comedy would be a young couple, they have a misunderstanding, and it is concluded happily, with comedy in the story...

And one more day to get them completed in...

I'm wondering how many entries Don has received so far???

Quoted from CindyLKeller

So a romantic comedy would be a young couple, they have a misunderstanding, and it is concluded happily, with comedy in the story...?

It would be too easy. There are so many kinds of romcom. And they're not absolutely all conclude happilly. (i.e. "My Best Friend's Wedding"). They are so formated. Hope there'll be some more original.

Quoted from The French fella

Hope there'll be some more original.

Hear hear. And there too.

Hope there won't be any masturbation, anal rape, or divine semen in the submissions ;D

Quoted from CindyLKeller

So a romantic comedy would be a young couple, they have a misunderstanding, and it is concluded happily, with comedy in the story...

And one more day to get them completed in...

I'm wondering how many entries Don has received so far???

Well the category is romantic dramedy so in theory it may not end well.

Hey guys. Have been meaning to ask this all week:

Ok, I've done the script and just did the lyrics. But here lies the difficulty and I think it will be the same for all the scripts. Can we embed the music in the actual script, so when it's read, the lyrics will connect with the melody?

at the moment, I can play the melody and sing my words no worries there. But the lyrics don't start till a few beats in, so anyone reding them(or anyone reading anyone's else's script) won't get the same feel for it. Does that make sense?
I'm sure George and other musos get my drift. Any thoughts?

Personally, I think the lyrics should begin after the intro, that means around 16/17 seconds after the beginning. Is it what you mean?

Quoted from michel

Personally, I think the lyrics should begin after the intro, that means around 16/17 seconds after the beginning. Is it what you mean?

Yes, yes, michel! Exactly my point. My lyrics start at 6-7 seconds in. so, do i write the beats in the dialogue?

What if I write.......to signal the beats or actually write (count seven seconds) This sounds odd but if people listen tot he song at that point while reading, it will fit better.

Someone pointed that problem earlier. The point is that the music should have been hummed at the precise time they wanted us to start the lyrics. I'm pretty sure that some people are going to start the lyric at the very beginning. This'll sound odd like you say. It'll be anarchy...

I'm assuming people will play the song as they read the scripts. If i do put down explcit directions then that'll give away my identity! Unless all of us put down a beat count.

Shhh...
No one is supposed to know who wrote a script, Ringo. ;D

You could put something like

CUE MUSIC

NOTE: Start song lyrics on the seventh beat.

I am so not musical. What is a beat count? I'm lucky to have just gotten some crappy lyrics out. :)

Quoted from CindyLKeller

Shhh...
No one is supposed to know who wrote a script, Ringo. ;D

You could put something like

CUE MUSIC

NOTE: Start song lyrics on the seventh beat.

Good idea Cindy.
My identity might be compromised anyway, if anyone spots the obscure Beatle references I snuck in...

I'm not a muso either wb but a beat count is just the, well, count of the beat. Sort of chord changes and stuff. The melody for the script doesn't really suggest any lyrics starting until 7 seconds in, to me anyway.

Cheers Rin...ah, stevie.

So if the lyrics start at the 7th beat, then end at like the 20th then restart again at another beat, then the chorus starts at another beat ... whoa. That just gave me a headache. I'll have to break out my son's metranome (however you spell that).

I would say you woudl just put the lyrics in. You don't have to have a beat count - more than half of the people reading would not understand it if you did include it. You can, however, say something like - Music starts at some point in the script have some dialog or action and then start the singing. This would imply that an intro is played.

Or just don't include anything about the music - people will try to make your lyrics fit somehow.

Whew. Thanks Michael. :)

Quoted from wannabe

Yeah, something like that. Hmm, this could be more interesting than thought. Cos everyone will have different lyrics and different timing set up.

I suspect people will just read your lyrics and judge them based on that. How well they fit the melody won't be an issue because everyone has a different one going through their head. How well they fit the tone of the music, well that's another story.

Yeah I guess so, Michael. It's sort of a shame though cos it will lessen the experience of listening.
I quite enjoyed singing my words out loud to the melody. Though my daughter started laughing...

I sing mine out loud too. My workmates are getting really pissed off.

Quoted from mcornetto

I sing mine out loud too. My workmates are getting really pissed off.

;D
I just realised that half the fun of reading other people's lyrics will be mentally slotting them into the music.
Imagine the trouble George Martin would've had, trying to translate John Lennon's musical thoughts to coherentcy

16 seconds in is where I hear the actual "melody" begin.  It's obviously going to be very tough to "hear" others lyrics over the melody.

I just completed my move.  I am going to try like crazy to come up with something and get it done by tomorrow night.  I haven't had a chance to start yet, and I've only goten like 12 hours of sleep in the past 5 days.

Moving sucks.  Losing your house to Foreclosure and having to move REALLY SUCKS!

Good luck to all!

Quoted from Dreamscale

Hi Jeff. Yeah, it'll be fun to see the different interps. Keep the chin up lad!

this will be the first challenge that is going to affect both the reader and the writer when it comes to the lyrics.
I can imagine we will be playing that theme over and over again in each script to make them fit.
Actually, I think it will be fun..

Since the entire snippet of music is only 56 seconds, the availability for lyrics is very, very limited. Obvioulsy, we can write lyrics which wrap as it restarts, but it is defintely going to be very difficult for the reader to relate to the lyrics as they fit into the melody.

It's gona be interesting!!!!!!

Quoted from Dreamscale

Yes Jeff, you are correct. There's an intro period before the actual melody line starts. I can hear clearly a song in my head with it and I'd actually love to sing it. Maybe when I find the time (good luck with that one eh?) I'll play around with it on my guitar and do a cool edit thing for fun.

What is interesting to me, is I've used the twisting sound that we hear at the beginning of the piece to.... Oh, I'm not supposed to say anything.  ;) But that gave me an idea.

Anyways everyone, don't worry how much any part of the piece may suck, just put the effort in and work on the craft. That's what this is all about. Rome wasn't built in a day blah-blah-blah...  ;D

Remember to have fun. and i MEAN IT!  8)

Night all.

Sandra

I'm new, so got to ask - I'm in search of the submission form. Also, do you accept word format?

Thanks

Please disregard the first questio (I found the form and how to submit) though still wondering if you accept word files.

Also, does it have to be copywritten?

Word docs are ok but pdfs are preferred. There are online services you can use to create a pdf - I'm not sure of where but someone here should know a link. But if you don't get an answer soon the word file is ok.

You should put (c) Copyright 2009 on the title page of your script - no names though because this is anonymous. After the writers are announced you can resubmit the script with your name on it.

Hope this helps and looking forward to reading your script.

EDIT:

Here's a place that will convert your word file to a pdf.

http://www.pdfonline.com/convert-pdf/

Am I the only one who actually tried to record my own voice along with the track?

Interesting Dude! I don't think many people will do that. I think many people sung to the music though...

It's interesting as long as you keep the headphones on or else......

Well, unless if you are not tone-deaf just like me.

Quoted from Dude

Am I the only one who actually tried to record my own voice along with the track?

LMAO. IT'S OK IF YOU CAN SING :P

Quoted from elis

LMAO. IT'S OK IF YOU CAN SING :P

Why, can't you?

Quoted from michel

Why, can't you?

Nothing good enough to share, lol

Thanks for us. is that why you moved out abroad?

Quoted from michel

Thanks for us. is that why you moved out abroad?

haha michel. Good one! ;)

Stop that flirting! This isn't a pub you know...

Quoted from rendevous

Stop that flirting! This isn't a pub you know...

Good idea! Two pints of lager, please...

Quoted from mcornetto

EDIT:

Here's a place that will convert your word file to a pdf.

http://www.pdfonline.com/convert-pdf/

Thanks, Michael, it helped. my pdf is on the way.

Alright, I've written something for this and I'm farely sure its not very good. Had a friend read and they were not at all impressed. But it was my effort, this week was more hectict than I thought. Last thing I want to do is waste peoples time reading something that now even I think isn't very good. Would you still post it???

I'm not gonna make it into this one so if anyone wants me to read and proof and whatnot, I can do one or two as I'm watching the Yankee game. PM me if your interested.

James, don't worry.  There will be a ton of poor scripts in this challenge...one will be mine, which I started 3 hours ago.  It's a tough challenge this time around, so don't worry about it at all.

Anyone who even completes a script for this is doing great.  It's all about pushing ourselves adn having fun doing it...RIGHT?????????

Looking forward to everyone's entry!  3 hours, 20 minutes to go!

Question, and sorry if it has been answered.... can the music be in there twice in the script?

Quoted from mcornetto

Here's some clarification for everyone.

For that matter you don't have to assume that the given music will only play once - it may repeat twice or more, making the song longer. You would want probably want to avoid more than twice because you want to leave some room for the story - which is always very important.

TOMMY - This might help.

Gary

Ah great. Thanks Gary :)

Tommy, I PMed you re this too.

Lord forgive me for i have sinned. I submitted that piece of shite just now. So I'm in ladys and gents... And i apologize. Still though, can't wait to see what the rest of ya's come up with. This will be some good shredding i suppose. Luck to all...

James

Tick, Tock. OWC comes to a close in less than two hours.

Don

I better get cracking then!

Quoted from Grandma Bear

I better get cracking then!

Coming soon: The One Hour Challenge! You thought the OWC was tough? Think again...

The ONE HOUR CHALLENGE sure applies to me!

Also, i apparantly SUCK at songwriting.

Jonny, the One Hour Challenge is oooolllddd...

Coming soon, to SS,

THE ONE MINUTE CHALLENGE!

The challenge is to write as much as you can in a minute. The content will not matter, only the word count.

You think you can type fast?! Wait till the OMC and find out!

(Most people should aim for a feature length script, but a long short would be okay too)

Actually, many of you have already heard that Don has finally perfected that flux capacitor he has been tinkering with.

Your next challenge script should have been submitted four hours ago.

Sorry if you missed the deadline.

Alright, so are we chatting tonight or what?

1 hour challenge? WOW...I feel alot better now. I had the 8 hour challenge, and I'm happy to say I completed it.

I am looking forward to reading some of the 1 minute entries.

I am going to be very, very nice this OWC. I'm moved in now and thigns are getting back on track.

39 minutes to post...C'mon everyone!!!!!!

Ugh...that was hard. I too suck at songwriting. I have a new found respect for songwriters! My story is ehh. Would have been better if I didn't put it off to the last minute. I thought about it all week though.

I'm looking forward to reviewing. ;D

Hey, help, someone! I'm wasted and I literally have no clue how to enter my script. I know...pitiful, but where do I get this clunker in?

Submit your script here

Thanks, Cornie!!! Do I use my real name and stuff? Sorry, but I'm toast and my brain isn't working too well...

Quoted from Dreamscale

Hey, help, someone! I'm wasted and I literally have no clue how to enter my script. I know...pitiful, but where do I get this clunker in?

http://www.simplyscripts.com/unpro_short_exercise_08_09.html

Do not put your name on the script, however, put your real name on the submission form.

Don

"Please do not put your real name on your script, however, please use your real name and real e-mail address on the submission form."

It's anonymous! Don't put your name on it.

I'm assuming I'm not the only one that's really looking forward to reading the romantic dramedy Jeff wrote when he was drunk? :)

Good to hear things are looking slightly rosier, buddy.

Thanks all. I'm a bit WASTED at teh moment, and my big OLD brain just ain't functioning like it should.

I think I got it in successfully, 20 minutes from closing.

Looking forward to all you scripts!

Don't we have an hour and 12 minutes?

Nope, I don't know what time zone you are in. But you only have 10 minutes left.

Quoted from Tommyp

Don't we have an hour and 12 minutes?

11:59 pd edt. That is 11 mins away.

Don

You weren't ACTUALLY planning on doing a One Hour Challenge, were you? 'Cos I was joking...

Man! I've sent my script to Michael to make in a PDF cause my PDF converter wasnt working from Final Draft and he hasn't written back! ARGH!

Okay well I dunno what I will do.

Only a few minutes left for Michael to reply... this is like a film!

Quick! Someone come up with some lyrics and THIS can be our script!

I submitted and resubmitted. Is it ok to resubmit? Hope I won't be punished for that.

My lyrics:

I'm gonna kill Mcornetto,
Because he didn't email back in time,
I'm gonna fire him as a mod,
Because the shitty format will clearly be mine.

Tommy! Send it over to me, adn I'll submit it for ya!

Quoted from JonnyBoy

I'm assuming I'm not the only one that's really looking forward to reading the romantic dramedy Jeff wrote when he was drunk?

Eh, just look for the one titled "Sodomy".

It's okay, I've sorted it out thanks man. I've PM'ed Don about it, it should be okay.

Thanks anyways!

Oh, and have a glass of water before your next glass of vodka, okay?! :)

Tommy, check your email.

Mike Shelton...c'mon, brother...be cool here. I wasn't drunk at all when it started. It kind of hit me like...a...heavy...thing all of a sudden.

I actually think it's pretty entertaining, and I did get 1 read, and it wasn't a horrendous backslap.

Are you in?

Tommy P...dude...you better drink an 8 oz tumbler of vodka...fuck the water!

Yes, Ellis, you missed the deadline unless you already submitted...

It's too late baby, now it's too late
Though we really did try to make it...

Something inside has died and I can't hide,
And I just can't fake it.

Don't know how it's relevant, I just want to join in...

When do they usually post the SP's so we can read them??

sometimes they're released in different lots...it depends on the number...

Quoted from mcornetto

It's too late baby, now it's too late
Though we really did try to make it...

Michael, those words for Elis.... (yeah I know it's lyrics but...) that's really sex-U-all. I'm trying to be funny, and it turns all Uh! Oooh!

Sigh.

It's a making me feel good, but I'm not supposed to be in this zone right now.

Men!!!!

Quoted from wannabe

When do they usually post the SP's so we can read them??

If you were to check the calendar, which can be found by the link at the top of the page, you would find that the scripts will begin to be released approximately tomorrow. And don't worry, Sandra will calm down before then.

I submitted the same script twice (both before the deadline) hoping that you'll consider only the latest submission. Resubmitted in a sense but don't know if I'm allowed to rebmit. Am I?

Quoted from Tommyp

Something inside has died and I can't hide,
And I just can't fake it.

Don't know how it's relevant, I just want to join in...

Just looked up the age of this song.

I recognized it immediately.

Tommy joins in before immediately.

Must mean:

We are old.

Either that--

Ohr the Light has caught up at the speed of Light. ;)

Quoted from khamanna

I submitted the same script twice (both before the deadline) hoping that you'll consider only the latest submission. Resubmitted in a sense but don't know if I'm allowed to rebmit. Am I?

Don will likely sort it out. Did you put anything in the comments when you submitted the script? If you are concerned then send Don a private message and tell him you meant for him to use the second one.

Thanks

My task now is to find out who is Don:) I'm so totally new, sorry.

Quoted from khamanna

Thanks

My task now is to find out who is Don:) I'm so totally new, sorry.

Don is God.

I'm new too.

Heaven's a devil to figure out.
;D

try this link

http://www.simplyscripts.net/cgi-bin/Blah/Blah.pl?v-memberpanel/a-view/u-admin/

Send a private message from there.

If you have a problem let me know and I'll message him for you.

Quoted from Sandra Elstree.

Don is God.

I'm new too.

Heaven's a devil to figure out.
;D

I giggle all the way down the board after I said Is it too Late?
but when I got to this line. I laughed.
Cute one! ;D

Does anynone know when the first OWC will be posted? Pleeeaaase........

I think the official line is ...

Quoted from SS Home Page herr Don

August 29 - 31 - scripts posted without author's names

Cute nail-biting and ring-twitching all round.

Quoted from michel

Does anynone know when the first OWC will be posted? Pleeeaaase........

Don gets to them when he can.  Patience, folks.  Like all of us, the man has a life outside these boards.

I see several new faces on this thread, and now is as good a time as any to remind all that playing without reading the scripts of others is very bad form.

If you could find the time to compose a script, you can darn well find time to offer some comments on the work of your peers.  Not all of them -- unless you are feeling particularly inspired -- but at least a good handful.

Otherwise, we send Shelton, Dreamscale, and Balt to your house with a case of Jack Daniels and a baseball bat.  You figure out the rest.

Quoted from bert

If you could find the time to compose a script, you can darn well find time to offer some comments on the work of your peers. Not all of them -- unless you are feeling particularly inspired -- but at least a good handful.

I agree!
Any idea on how many scripts were actually posted?

i think the official vegas line set the over/under at 34

Wonder where those scripts are hiding? I was looking forward to reading them when I woke up.

Quoted from mcornetto

Wonder where those scripts are hiding? I was looking forward to reading them when I woke up.

So do I... :-/

I can't wait for them to appear! Fascinated to see what people have come up with...

Wonder how many there'll be this time? Last OWC attracted roughly thirty, but I have a feeling the turnout will be quite a bit lower this time.

My prediction: sixteen.

I know how many scripts there were - or very close to the number - because we were skypeing last night. But I'll let Don tell you. Keep guessing.

I never in my life would post something that I know is not good... Except for this. I have a reasoning for it though. I'll divulge aftr guess week. It will give Jeff and Balt something to destroy for the meantime. Should be fun to watch.

I will not be destroying anything in this OWC. I have been reborn as a nice, easy going guy who loves all scripts, and couldn't say a cruel word if my life depended on it.

Quoted from mcornetto

I know how many scripts there were - or very close to the number - because we were skypeing last night. But I'll let Don tell you. Keep guessing.

Pray tell Michael....pretty please.
I think everyone is on the edge of their seat already; revealing that would be good :P

I forgot about Skype :'(

Quoted from elis

Pray tell Michael....pretty please.
I think everyone is on the edge of their seat already; revealing that would be good :P

I forgot about Skype :'(

It would be good.  I could tell you the number right now.  The number is (drum roll)...

But i won't.

Will leave that pleasure for Don and will leave you all on the edge of your seats until he decides to.  Don't fall off now, ya hear?

MICHAEL!!!!!! >:(

Don :'(

ANYONE???
Can't write any smaller...I am grovelling! ::)

How many do you think there are?

Quoted from mcornetto

How many do you think there are?

Possibly 28!

If you add the number of books sitting on the table in front of me and subtract the number of spice jars in the kitchen that need a refill then you would be within 10 of the correct answer.

Quoted from mcornetto

If you add the number of books sitting on the table in front of me and subtract the number of spice jars in the kitchen that need a refill then you would be within 10 of the correct answer.

No big deal about the answer.... Send them in! It's past midnight over here.

Quoted from mcornetto

If you add the number of books sitting on the table in front of me and subtract the number of spice jars in the kitchen that need a refill then you would be within 10 of the correct answer.

11, lol

Quoted from elis

11, lol

I don't have any books on the table in front of me.

Quoted from mcornetto

I don't have any books on the table in front of me.

and let's say you have no empty jars...Surely, not only 10 entries!!!!!!!

Quoted from elis

and let's say you have no empty jars...Surely, not only 10 entries!!!!!!!

My partner cooks Indian food regularly.

LMAO

OK!!! LET'S LEAVE IT AT THAT! AS I AM DOWN TO A 5 COUNT.

Hope you enjoyed the food :P
So I am probably the only one who did one!
No wait a minute...I was too late to enter :'(

Elis, just use the age old excuse... The dog ate my keyboard

Quoted from jwent6688

Elis, just use the age old excuse... The dog ate my keyboard

Have used those excuses for decades, lmao!

Warning GEEK humour alert:

Or you could say you were moving your portable hard drive and you accidentally turned it sideways and all the bits fell off.

End GEEK humour alert warning.

Quoted from mcornetto

Warning GEEK humour alert:

Or you could say you were moving your portable hard drive and you accidentally turned it sideways and all the bits fell off.

End GEEK humour alert warning.

OMG! This exactly what happened to me!

I was hoping a few would have been posted by now, but no go. I'm off to a UFC 102 party for the night, so I'll just hope we have a few up when I return...drunk, of course.

Remember, I will be a nice reviewer this OWC. No personal attacks, no mean spirited remarks. I think I can...I think I can...I can!

Quoted from Dreamscale

You'll do it Jeff. And I have to give you kudos on really lifting up your reviewing style since the last OWC. Well done! Have fun at the party.

Quoted from Dreamscale

I was hoping a few would have been posted by now, but no go. I'm off to a UFC 102 party for the night

I forgot about UFC being on tonight.

We are all Awaiting the unveiling moment and I sure Don is doing his best! :P

I'm about ready to give up waiting. I know - I've only been waiting an hour or so since I woke up but I'm an impatient sort. What is UFC?

Quoted from mcornetto

I'm about ready to give up waiting. I know - I've only been waiting an hour or so since I woke up but I'm an impatient sort. What is UFC?

UFC is a mixed martial arts comp that happens every month.

The OWC has been canceled...

UFC - Ultimate Fighting Championship. It's MMA - Mixed Martial Arts. There are many different "fight leagues", but UFC is the cream of the crop.

Here's an easy analogy for you...NFL is to football, as UFC is to MMA.

The main cards are all pay per view ($45-$55). Spike TV has Ultimate Fighter seasons, as well as some smaller cards for free. It's an expensive sport to enjoy and over a year's time, you'll be paying around $500 or so to watch every single event.

Later, guys and gals!

ME!
Where have you been hiding?

OK. I am going to fade away for a while....Can't wait anymore!

Quoted from Dreamscale

I will not be destroying anything in this OWC. I have been reborn as a nice, easy going guy who loves all scripts, and couldn't say a cruel word if my life depended on it.

I spit a little beer out of my nose when I read that. Born again, Jeff? Tell us it ain't so...

I sent an email to Don to find out if he was planning on posting some of the scripts today or not. Still haven't heard back from him. I'll keep you posted.

Thanks :P ;D ;) :) 8) :K)

I got a confirmation email @ around 5 that my script was accepted for OWC. Getting the feeling that Don is a busy man. Give it time. You will definitely be wasting 12 minutes of your life when you read one of them.

Quoted from jwent6688

You will definitely be wasting 12 minutes of your life when you read one of them.

I've read many great OWC scripts over the years...

Everyone is giving it time. But there isn't much sense in eagerly anticipating the posts today if they are going to happen tomorrow. I'm fine with them happening either day but it's Sunday here and if I don't have to do some reading today then there's other things I can plan on doing.

Quoted from elis

ME!
Where have you been hiding?

I'm a closet lurkerer. ;)

Quoted from jwent6688

There's one entrant, LMAO.
No secret here!

Ok everyone, looks like they are posting. Thanks Don.

Quoted from mcornetto

Ok everyone, looks like they are posting. Thanks Don.

Sorry for the delay. Five are up. The "*" indicates the writer has, in past OWC's or in general, has taken the time to read and review scripts.

Things you can do while waiting for Don to post OWC's:
1. Reaquaint yourself with your spouse/significant other after spending the last week working this project.
2. Step outside. That glowing circle in the sky should still be there...It's called the sun, or moon, depending where you are at the moment.
3. Feed the pets. Clean the cat box. She will appreciate that.
4. Check on other world events. (Not the soccer scores; I assume you'd be up on those.)
5. Watch the Lovecraft Youtube over and over...

Oh fuck...... Here they come. I'm hopping on my bigwheel and riding off into the horizon. Later y'all..

Quoted from jwent6688

Hmm, didn't think I was that drunk back then. But i meant to say "you'll be wasting 12 minutes of your life when you read mine." If I typo'd that... You can only imagine.

They haven't been so bad, I'm surprised. I'm about ready for the next batch.

Quoted from jwent6688

I don't think that anything is ever a waste, but I understand that it feels that way sometimes.

Sandra

What do the stars mean? I got it for general threads but why does one submitted script have stars?

Do you mean asterisks? * <--that character?

That means that someone has entered an OWC before and read entries. There's more hang on while I look for Don's announcement.

Quoted from Don

The “*” in the title of the OWC script indicates that the person who submitted the script has, in the past, read and reviewed at least three scripts in this or previous challenges. If you feel you should have a star, please let me know via email at webmaster (a) simplyscripts.com or discussion board private message. Click the title to go to the discussion board thread, then click the title to read the script.

Quoted from michel

What do the stars mean? I got it for general threads but why does one submitted script have stars?

Michael I might be wrong but isn't Michel referring, not to the asterisk but to the actual Stars (number of votes for the thread).

I wondered about this too. If it is what I'm thinking, and this is a vote, I'll not be adding my vote until all the entries have been submitted. Make sense? :-/ And I mean that in the nicest possible way btw.

Don may have left the voting on.  However, I'm not sure if he wants you to vote or not.

Yup. Voting is on and some people voted for The love that dares...  and that's why Michel was seeing stars.   Sorry for the misunderstanding.

I'm not sure if Don intends you to vote or not - we have tried that before and it never works out that well - however, perhaps Don has a plan.  In which case you will need to ask him once he is awake.

I'm about to head off to bed.   So see you guys in the morning.

Quoted from LC

Michael I might be wrong but isn't Michel referring, not to the asterisk but to the actual Stars (number of votes for the thread).

I do. I didn't know the (big) stars refer to votes. Thanks.

Is there a list of who posted anywhere??? And the amount of scipts? Would be more fun to know, since we're all trying to guess anyways...

We usually try to keep it anonymous for one week.

The list of scripts are here in case someone hasn't noticed yet. http://www.simplyscripts.net/cgi-bin/Blah/Blah.pl?b-OWC0809/

Even if we can guess who wrote what we don't mention any names for the first week. :)

Oof, well blame it on the newbie... been throwing out names on every script i've read. Thought that was the guessing game. i will refrain from doing so. All it takes is one arse to ruin all the fun, guess I need to learn my place.

Was just wondering if there was a list of those who submitted, not attached to their scripts...

Don, are there any more scripts for the OWC?
10 SEEMS A VERY SMALL AMOUNT!

Isn't 10 how many you guessed there would be?

There's more. Don's just releasing them as he thinks appropriate.

Quoted from jwent6688

Is there a list of who posted anywhere??? And the amount of scipts? Would be more fun to know, since we're all trying to guess anyways...

I'll post a list of the writers a few days after all the scripts have been uploaded to the discussion board. It will probably be under the heading of "Guess who wrote what" .

As for the number of scripts. There were 45 submissions, of which around 40 met the criteria.

Don

Quoted from Don

As for the number of scripts. There were 45 submissions, of which around 40 met the criteria.

Don

Good amount of scripts for the OWC.
Do you actually read them all before uploading?

Quoted from Don

around 40...

That is impressive.

In that case, your "asterisk" method of designating the scripts is an excellent idea, Don.

I hope that all contributing members understand what those asterisks mean -- and will ask if they are not clear.

I hope a few more scripts are uploaded today.
I don't know everyone else's schedule, but after working 12 to 13 hours a day it really is difficult to review with a fresh mind.
The weekend is great for reviewing and I am sure I speak for some of us :)

Quoted from bert

Bert, I sent out an email to all the folks who participated explaining what the asterisks mean. There are around seven folks that either aren't registered on the boards OR I haven't been able to identify them on the boards. I check periodically to see if anyone needs to be upgraded.

Edit: Oh, and I am giving the new folks an opportunity to read and comment before post his/her script.

Quoted from elis

Good amount of scripts for the OWC.
Do you actually read them all before uploading?

Elis,

I do a quick scan before uploading, but don't do a deep read. I check for a beginning and an end and some indication that there is a song somewhere in the script. A few may have slipped by.

Don

Edit:

Quoted from elis

Elis, I've uploaded five more, just for you.

With Love and Squalor ^*

Don

^*apologies to J. D. Salinger

Quoted from michel

IMO, the main problem is it's practically impossible to establish a complete dramedy in 12 pages (or less), those kinds of stories are only effective in features where you take time to settle the situations. Too bad...

Just like I said before and after reading several shorts, my estmaitions were right. We see now clearly it's very difficult to write romcom/dramedy in 12 pages or less. This genre has its rules you can achieve in so few pages. That's why i'll try to be indulgent with the authors from now. If the romantic vibe is here, if the song is inmplied in the story, that would be a GOOD point alreday. It's like been ordered a ratatouille in one hour but you haven't got the time to gather all the ingridients. It's still ratatouille but several flavors are missing.

But it'll be a total of 40 submissions. Who knows the rare pearl would be still among them?

Michel 8)

Quoted from Don

Elis, I've uploaded five more, just for you.

Never fail to accommodate ;)
Thanks Don

Quoted from michel

Just like I said before and after reading several shorts, my estmaitions were right. We see now clearly it's very difficult to write romcom/dramedy in 12 pages or less. Michel

Yep, agreed with you last time - agree with you now.

Quoted from michel

But it'll be a total of 40 submissions. Who knows the rare pearl would be still among them?

I just feel some may be overlooked (even though I know every effort is being made to upload at spaced intervals) and I can't believe there are this many submissions! :o

Anyway, I don't want to rain on anyone's parade. This is/was obviously a huge job for Don and everyone else involved behind the scenes to 'orchestrate' ('scuse the pun). Everyone who made a submission deserves credit for their effort. And ditto to those reading/reviewing as many as possible. :)

I have a small gripe.
I have copied this little excert, not to point fingers, but to show that there is a lot more to reviewing!
__________________________________________________________________________________

Quoted from cloroxmartini

I'll tell you right now that I like happy endings. All the time. So let's set that aside for the moment and pretend it didn't happen

What he said. ( meaning what the above reviewer reviewed)
_________________________________________________________________________________

It would be nice for some to add some criticism...copying what others have said is pretty weak!
Had to make a mention of this. >:( ::)
I have seen so many reviews being composed after reading other peoples reviews, that I start to wonder whether they are reading the stories at all!

Not picking on you cloroxmartini... but I have seen too many who comment in the manner you just did and I think it's shear laziness and an insult to the writer.

I have only said things in my reviews that I have honestly felt.

I was worried I sounded too rough sometimes. Thought about trying to be more nice, but decided I should be true to my feelings. I tried to offer something helpful...

You always offer good and workable comments Pia. This not aimed at you :P

Just annoyed. People seem to think that agreeing with someone's comment without giving any good or helpful criticism of their own, is worthwhile. I think it is a total waste of time and why bother?!

Pia...YES!!!! Be real, so I won't be the only one that gets shit for being honest, and telling it like it is. I am trying to be much nicer than the last OWC, but I'm finding that sometimes it's difficult.

I am trying though for sure, and never intend on putting anyone down or hurting their feelings.

In keeping with this line of conversation --

We moderators try to watch the boards pretty close, but we will probably miss something on 40 busy threads this week.

I know I will not have time to watch them.

If you spot reviews that you feel are inappropriate, do not hesitate to use the "Report" key on the upper-right of every post. Let us know. It will help.

And Dreamscale, you are just gonna catch shit no matter what you do. I thought you had figured that out by now...

Bert,
Didn't mean to sound like a bitch but I just had to get it off my chest :P

Quoted from bert

And Dreamscale, you are just gonna catch shit no matter what you do. I thought you had figured that out by now...

Anyone who starts a comment with "Pia...YES!!!! " will always be a friend of mine. ;)

I think Jeff gives awesome comments. Very thoughtful and in depth.

Others do as well, but somehow they don't seem to get cranky replies. If I ever post a feature here, I would be very happy to get a review from him. Even if he trashed my script.

Quoted from Grandma Bear

I think Jeff gives awesome comments. Very thoughtful and in depth.

I agree! :P

Bert, what exactly happens when someone presses the report button?

Blue lights flash and all hell breaks loose.

Quoted from Tommyp

Bert, what exactly happens when someone presses the report button?

Go ahead and try it, you coward.

Seriously, it just brings up a little comment box for you to tell why you think it should be reviewed, then sends Don a short email with a link to that post.

I might not get them on these boards, now that I think of it. I get them on the Script boards and General Chat and stuff -- but maybe not here.

I hope Don doesn't get mad that I just flooded his inbox haha. Sorry there, Don.

Maybe drop me a PM instead, if you spot something particularly objectionable.

Quoted from elis

Didn't mean to sound like a bitch but I just had to get it off my chest

I do not think it came off that way, but you do need to realize that with 40 scripts, some of the comments may be kind of short.

I think most people get what you mean -- and in fairness to clorox up there, I have also seen very good comments from him in the past -- but a few stinkers, too.

I'll actually stick up for Clorox here. The man speaketh the truth most of the time. He may be harsh but I honestly can't disagree with most of his comments. They could be more diplomatic, but then couldn't we all?

I was really hoping for the next five today (15-20).

Quoted from khamanna

I was really hoping for the next five today (15-20).

Hey, look at the time kman! ;) It's still daylight for some of us, but on the other side of the world they're all snoozing. Unless the powers that be are insomniacs.

Hi don,

where do the authors' names come this time? Just curious...

Michel 8)

I've been scanning through the comments (as I'm supposed to do) and I've noticed a lot of people commenting on there not being enough comedy.

Please remember that it's a "dramedy" and not a flat out comedy, which will be presented in a different way.

That is all.

Quoted from michel

Hi don,

where do the authors' names come this time? Just curious...

Michel 8)

Some names were names the author submitted under, some names are twisted versions of the true author's real name, some names random phrases heard whilst trying to think up names and some names are names I got from my kids when I ask them to give me a fake name.

Don

How do you decide whether a SP crosses the line from "dramedy to conedy" or in the other direction from "dramedy to drama"? It's not like a recipe where for "dramedy" you add 3 scenes of drama and 2 lines of comedy. So I guess it's more the vibe you get from the story? Because some of the SP's I've read have LOL moments while others have more subtle, light hearted things that happen that sort of pull it out of the strictly drama category. For some it's obviously lacking in drama or comedy but with others it's a fine line.

I'm not sure if this was a question or just me rambling. :P

The best I can come up with is: a script that has a story you'd expect from a drama, but laced with comedic touches. That's pretty rubbish, but I know what I mean.

With there being 40 scripts, clearly no-one's going to read every single one. Just curious how people choose which to review? I try to give each script equal attention, and a 50 point score, but I can't see myself doing that for 40 scripts...how do people choose which ones they're going to pass on?

Quoted from JonnyBoy

how do people choose which ones they're going to pass on?

Stupid things as titles, loglines... and tireness... ;D

Michel 8)

I usually try to pick those with the fewest reads, but if I open it up and it somehow turns me off right away, I move on to something else.

Quoted from Grandma Bear

I usually try to pick those with the fewest reads, but if I open it up and it somehow turns me off right away, I move on to something else.

Hope it wasn't mine... ;D oops... :B

Quoted from Grandma Bear

I usually try to pick those with the fewest reads, but if I open it up and it somehow turns me off right away, I move on to something else.

I go with the one(s) with the fewest reads as well. Not only is it good to help out a writer whose work hasn't attracted as much attention, but there's also less of a chance of me saying something that someone else hasn't already brought up.

Quoted from bobtheballa

You shouldn't worry about saying something that someone has already brought up. Repetition is a great way to determine what is really wrong with a script.

I will read and comment on every single entry. I start from the bottom up, so I too go for the ones with the fewest posts, or actually, the oldest posts.

Quoted from Dreamscale

I will read and comment on every single entry. I start from the bottom up, so I too go for the ones with the fewest posts, or actually, the oldest posts.

well said Jeff. I have read every one so far - did the first 15 yesterday one after the other (had the time -Monday is my spare day). And i will read the other 25 when up.
I was going to comment on this later but will bring it up now.

I think that every one who posted a script should read all of the others. or else it isn't fair. Just my opinion but i will definitely read all the others and comment even if my reviews are short. I feel strongly about this and will be very disappointed if ALL scripts don't have a minimum of 40 replies. Cheers and thanks Jeff for bringing it up.

Quoted from stevie

I think that every one who posted a script should read all of the others. or else it isn't fair. Just my opinion but i will definitely read all the others and comment even if my reviews are short. I feel strongly about this and will be very disappointed if ALL scripts don't have a minimum of 40 replies. Cheers and thanks Jeff for bringing it up.

Not sure I agree with this. I don't think anyone who submitted should, or indeed would, feel they are entitled to 40 replies. Once the challenge is over and the names revealed, then by all means people can go around and return reads...but I don't like that people might feel guilt-tripped into HAVING to read every script when they might not have the time or feel they have much constructive to say.

Getting reviews is a privilege, not a right. I applaud anyone who does manage to read all of them (I tried to last time and fell short), but I don't feel it's right to criticise those who don't.

Quoted from Dreamscale

I will read and comment on every single entry. I start from the bottom up, so I too go for the ones with the fewest posts, or actually, the oldest posts.

I would like to do this too, but I don't hold it against people who just can't do this.

There's also the question of time spent on individual scripts. Some scripts, I tend to spend more time studying and critiquing. I really never know how much time I will spend on any given one.

Also, I'm not as swift as Jeff, who I think is brilliant, by the way. Oh yes, and George. And many of you others (you know who you are) So it probably takes me a lot longer than it should.

I've had to work today (outside of writing work) and I won't be doing any more reads until this evening, but please be patient. I'm going to try my best with you all.

Sandra

I don't read anyone's comments for a script before I write my own. I think it's very easy to get influenced and opinions do sway..

Anyway, do you?

Yes, I see your points Jonny and Sandra. I forgot that people will read them when things quiten down. I like to read them while they are 'fresh' and the challenge vibe is still around.
I can read pretty quickly especially with shorts. I didn't mean to have a go at anyone.

You are only required to read three scripts per the rules though it's considered good form to read a few more. It's considered superhuman to read almost all of them and you're a saint if you read the lot.

Saint Stevie and Saint Jeffrey will read the entire lot!

Obvioulsy, I don't go into detail like I normally would, but I do still try and write at least 3 paragraphs of constructive criticism (or pure praise, if that's the case).

I realize everyone is different, in terms of reading speed, schedule, etc. Do what you feel works for you, and read at least 3 scripts.

Quoted from Shelton

Just want to back up this point.

The challenge WASN'T to write a romantic comedy. We're not looking for Love Actually here. Dramedy isn't comedy, it's drama with some comedy. It's important to find a balance...but I think something with a couple of lighter moments that leans towards the dramatic is closer than something that's just pure comedy. By all means bring the funny...but bring the sad, or the moving, or the uplifting, too.

Quoted from Dreamscale

I am a Saint actaully. I follow the mighty St.Kilda! We finished on top with 20 wins and 2 losses. The finals start this weekend and first up we play Chris's Collingwood.

Sorry to stick footy stuff in this thread but Michael started it ...

Jeff is a Saint too....the patron Saint of Amercian alcohol producers!!

Stevie, you really stuck your footy in this thread.

Quoted from mcornetto

Stevie, you really stuck your footy in this thread.

;D

Melbourne will be buzzing for the next month. Have you any mad footy fan co-workers Michael? Any funny stories?

I suppose 40 reads is a big ask. But the shorts have been fairly easy on the eye so I'll get through them all. I am a stickler for fininshing what I start.

Except for a million script ideas....

I can't say I'll be reading forty scripts. That's a big ask in my book. I'll read most of them in time but you gotta be in the mood otherwise it's a waste of everyone's time.

Quoted from stevie

I feel strongly about this and will be very disappointed if ALL scripts don't have a minimum of 40 replies.

Oh, you will indeed be disappointed.  People who play but read nothing in return has been a sore point with me since the inception of these challenges.

I call them leeches -- to their faces -- to their internet faces, anyway -- and make no bones about it.

They suck, but there is really nothing to do about them.

But I do go back later and delete any posts I have made on their threads.  And I never read anything else they might ever post.

And I encourage others to do the same.

Reading a few scripts is one thing -- not everybody is going to have time for 40 scripts -- but reading nothing?  Screw those guys.

Quoted from Stevie

Yikes...I better get back to my football thread if I want to talk about footy!!

Good points bert.

My main gripe at the moiment is the posting of scripts(normal not OWC) that aren't by any of the SS people. Some guys are good enough to review them but there's buckley's of there being a reply
does Don post scripts he finds on the Net? How does this work?
If there's no username, its odds on the writer isn't around.

Anyway, back to OWC discussion. And I won't mention foo___ right.

Anyone can have their script posted at SS. You don't have to be a forum member. :)

Ok, cool Pia. But very few of them respond to people who take the time to read and comment on them. That's the point I'm making.

I know... That's why most people here only read scripts with a user name after the author's name unless it's a script that really catch their interest and they decide to read it anyway.

If I read something and the person who wrote it won't even bother to say thanks, I usually delete my comments.

Quoted from stevie

My main gripe at the moiment is the posting of scripts(normal not OWC) that aren't by any of the SS people. Some guys are good enough to review them but there's buckley's of there being a reply
does Don post scripts he finds on the Net? How does this work?
If there's no username, its odds on the writer isn't around.

Stevie,

The unproduced scripts posted to SimplyScripts come from writer submissions.  I don't go trolling the 'net for unproduced scripts and post 'em up here.

To Pia's point, you don't have to be a member of the forum to post a script to the site.   I do encourage folks to register to the site and read and review the work of other people.

With regard to usernames, If a user gives me a username in the submission, generally I'll add the username to the written by name.  However, in some cases, like Shelton or Michael Cornetto, their username is close enough to their real name that I don't post it.

As to the reading and reviewing.  I really do appreciate those folks who read them all.  I skim through all of them, but I can only do a deep dive on so many.  So, I depend on feedback from the 'super reviewers' when it comes to the script selection process.

Also, at the end of hte week, I'll be asking the writers to tell me, of the scripts you have read which ones did you like the best.

Don

Thanks Don. Appreciate your clarifying that. Will continue my reading of OWC...16 done.

Quoted from top of the page

Users Browsing Forum: JonnyBoy, stevie and 21 Guests

Eek! Who are all these unknown people?

Quoted from JonnyBoy

Eek! Who are all these unknown people?

That's just the government, watching your every move.

Quoted from Shelton

That's just the government, watching your every move.

nosey barsterds

Quoted from JonnyBoy

Eek! Who are all these unknown people?

That's nothing -- check out this stat from the little-seen "Extensive Statistics" board -- the bottom of the home page can link you there if you are a stats geek like myself. There are some interesting things there.

Quoted from Extensive Statistics

162 users, Today, 5:16pm

That's a new record. Don must be doing something right haha.

Maybe I've just been lucky with my picks, but I have voted 5 stars on more scripts than I normally do in the OWC. Pretty good quality on the scripts so far!

I haven't encountered any real turkeys either. Great job people!

A silly question. where do we 'vote' for each script?

Bottom left of the script's thread. There's a drop-down box.

Quoted from Extensive Statistics

162 users, Today, 5:16pm

Quoted from bert

That's a new record. Don must be doing something right haha.

Probably an anemic denial of service attack. :-/

Have to say that generally the standard appears to be pretty high. Especially considering that this was a tough brief. Good work, peeps!

Maybe I've just managed to avoid the stinkers so far, though... :)

Reading alot of good scripts, but based on how good they are, I know many of the authors were smart enough to realize they were missing an important piece to a rom dramedy.

I would guess maybe 20% of the scripts I've read so far made an attempt to convey romance, drama, and comedy. Feels like some people are just writing in their comfortable realm.

If that was the case, I would have wrote a story about a witch in the woods whoom if you hear her sing, you die...

Maybe i'll go write that right now....

This was my first OWC. Was the point just to get us all to write or avtually try to create something with the parameters what have been set-up??

I'm a little confused, no harm, but i would've like to see everyone try to squeeze all that in 12 pgs. It's a motherfucker.

Quoted from jwent6688

As to the intentions behind the OWC, that's a good question. The perfect person to ask would be Phil - since I think he was central to its introduction - but I don't know if he's around on the site right now.

I think it's a bit of both. It's a way to focus everyone's efforts on writing and reviewing, but also a chance for people to push themselves and try to meet a brief that might be slightly out of their comfort zone. Just because people haven't managed to completely meet the criteria doesn't necessarily mean they didn't try to, though. It's a tough balancing act, and some may have just nobly failed. I think this is an example of an exercise that has produced a lot of scripts that'll be a whole lot better with just a couple of re-writes...most are fundamentally good, but just missing that extra ingredient that'd really make them zing.

I think the most interesting point to come out of everyone's reviews, and it's something I've tried to raise before but seemed to be ignored (Shelton raised it first) is what exactly 'dramedy' means. Some people seem to be reviewing the entries as if they're looking for the next Richard Curtis script. How much comedy does a dramedy need for it to move out of being a straightforward drama? And on the other hand, at what point does the comedy out-muscle the drama, and the thing ends up not being 'dramatic' enough? That's the interesting part...at least to me.

Quoted from JonnyBoy

I agree. These kinds of questions and trying to draw boundaries of definition are just one of the extremely positive things that come out of an exercise like this.

It's what makes makes this virtual environment so special.

Sandra

Quoted from JonnyBoy

How much comedy does a dramedy need for it to move out of being a straightforward drama? And on the other hand, at what point does the comedy out-muscle the drama, and the thing ends up not being 'dramatic' enough? That's the interesting part...at least to me.

That's the point, JonnyBoy. And furthermore, like I said before, it's quite impossible to develop a such thing in 12 pages. IMO.

I don't claim to know exactly what a dramedy is. Should I quit reviewing until I have a clear understanding of what it is?

If we're going to complain about how people review, I think we'll lose some reviewers. At least that's how I feel and I didn't enter anything...

Quoted from Grandma Bear

Okay, fair enough. Didn't mean to criticise reviews or reviewers, everyone's welcome to review however they want. Nobody knows what a 'dramedy' is, including me - that's my point. Was actually hoping to start a little discussion about exactly what we all thought 'dramedy' meant as a genre classification, but I'll leave it alone now. Lesson learned.

Don't really appreciate the implicit accusation that I'm trying to get people to change how they're reviewing, or suggesting that some people are reviewing 'wrong' and shouldn't continue...bit offended, actually. Didn't realise you thought I was like that. But I'll leave it there, and not speak out of turn in future.

Apparently i'm out numbered in my argument. I've just seen a great deal of similar posts on the boards that one or two things were missing in many of these.

But they are impressively good nontheless.

I'll admit, I'm new and wanted to gauge myself against other writers... If I got completely outshined, but tried my best, maybe this isn't my bag.

I know it's not a competition. but it is a "Challenge".

I know my script suffered because I banged my head off the fridge trying to impliment all the elements. I guess because of my lack of understanding, I thought the rules were concrete and precise...

Quoted from jwent6688

I thought the rules were concrete and precise...

When talking about creative endeavors the rules are never concrete and precise.

you're offended? ever thought others were by your comment?

I mean that in a nice way btw. not trying to argue.

Quoted from Grandma Bear

I mean that in a nice way btw. not trying to argue.

thanks for the addendum pia ... I was just going to add that for you btw.

Honestly, no. But if I did offend anyone, then I apologise. I was really just trying to reinforce what Mr. Shelton said - no-one seemed to mind when he said it, but then he is much better looking than me. :)

I don't want to argue either. Hoping we can get through this OWC without a repeat of what blew up last time - going well so far! I seem to have touched a nerve when all I was trying to do was just make a hopefully constructive comment, something for people to bear in mind. If that came across as criticism or dismissiveness, then maybe I'm far worse at this writing lark than I thought...

Quoted from mcornetto

thanks for the addendum pia ... I was just going to add that for you btw.

well Michael, you know me... arguing just isn't my thing.... ;)

No worries with me Jonnyboy. Until i run out of booze. Then its on....

Hmmm, I'm a bit confused now.  Originally, I thought the challenge genre was Romantic Comedy/Drama.  I just checked and I see that it's listed as "Romantic Drama/Comedy (Romantic Dramedy)".

Was this changed at all, since when it was first posted?  I seem to remember Don saying that he tweaked teh wording, based on questions.

Either way, it seems pretty obvious to me that we're talking about a script that contains Romance, Comedy, and Drama.  Right?

I guess the only tough part for me to really explain (and understand) is drama. But then again, isn't everything, pretty much drama?

Print Topic