Genre: Family Horror
Theme: At this year's Halloween Festival, strange things are happening.

You must write a script (properly formatted) 12 pages or less (courier 12 point font).

The scripts must be received by Friday, October 16th 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.

Please submit your work to October OWC, here.

a little early, but okay...

Quoted from Grandma Bear a little early, but okay...

"On October 9th, at 10:00 pm edt, the theme and genre will be announced..."  I moved the announcement up two hours so as to be a bit more lucid for the back lash.

Don

Okay, first question. What is a Family Horror?

Are we talking Harry Potter sort of stuff here?

i'm sticking my finger down my throat...

okay...sorry. didn't read the fine print.

no backlash...sorry

Family horror?  Hmmm, does that cover regular horror?  What happened to the Bacchanal refernces?

Thought we were dealing with wine?

Sounds good.  Should be fun as always.

Nice job, Don!

To me, family horror means Ghost and Mr. Chicken type of horror.  My favorite kind!!!!

BY my calculations, the timing is spot on. Its 1215 pm Saturday afternoon here, which is 10 pm EDT.

I think...

Hmm, family horror?  a family of vampires or werewolves anyone?  a family of scary scriptwriters?  almost anything goes here.

Quoted from Grandma Bear okay...sorry. didn't read the fine print. no backlash...sorry

It's all good.

Quoted from slap shot i'm sticking my finger down my throat...

Ah!  backlash.

Well...I've been missing my "Simply Script" gang :)  I wrote my first script last year for the October OWC...so how can I resist????  I can't...so there you have it!

I'm in for the Halloween, Horror and fall fun!

MBCgirl

Quoted from Dreamscale Family horror?  Hmmm, does that cover regular horror?  What happened to the Bacchanal refernces? Thought we were dealing with wine? Sounds good.  Should be fun as always. Nice job, Don!

Sure you don't want to buddy up again, Jeff?

Come on, deep down you know you really do....

Look, just pretend I'm Balt and we're doing something Frostbitey.

Speaking of Balt...WTF happened to him?  Did he get kicked off again?  I haven't seen hide nor hairs of him.

I guess Frostbite will remain a mystery forever.

No teaming up, Stevie!  This is an OWC...an individual OWC.  No comedy...just horror!

My wicked, pickled brain is alrady formulating some devious stuff...

Like "G" rated family stuff?  Yikes.  Don't know if I can push aside the evil thoughts that live in my head.  

Question: Can it be a comedy as well as horror?

Quoted from Murphy What is a Family Horror? Are we talking Harry Potter sort of stuff here?

Horror that kids can read.

When this has been done in the past, one component of the judging was based upon having Don's kids look over the entries and selecting their favorites.

Those thinking of entering might want to keep that in mind as their target audience, should he elect to do that again.

So, maybe we're talking PG 13?  Implied horror and violence, but not much bloodshed onscreen?

Sounds alot like last year's, with the "young adult" theme.  Damn, not my bag, but I am going to enter this time around...or maybe I won't...maybe I will...maybe someone else will enter a script that looks like mine...or maybe I'll enter one that looks like someone else's?

Gotta keep everyone guessing, right?

any skypers out there, look up swampmistress to connect. usually shelton hosts this, but he's away tonight so I'm it.  :)

I love the idea of G Rated family stuff.  It'll be great to maybe see some scripts without penis envy related stuff.  :)

I despise G rated anything!  I hate PG stuff, and I intensely dislike PG 13 garbage.

I amy just have to bucj he system, like many always do, and write a hard R rated family horror script. Or maybe I'll write a pany-ass G rated Scobby Doo mystery.

BTW, welcome back MBC!  Where ya been, fellow Arizonian?

New job has been a humungus challenge in my life...but things are getting better so more time for me! :)  OWC here I come! lol

This is ironic considering I was planning to try and write a bloodless horror if the genre was indeed horror, just to try something different for me. Now it seems everyone will do the same. Personally, I've yet to write a horror script without at least one gory set piece. Even the stuff I watched as a kid (Jaws, Gremlins, Tim Burton movies) weren't short of a certain "grossness." This might just be tougher than the last OWC. I'll have to decide whether or not this is my place, haha.

Quoted from khamanna Question: Can it be a comedy as well as horror?

I reckon the family horror genre lends itself to some good comedy.

Last chance Jeff! Surely you remember the great time we had with the January team challenge?  I'm starting my script already for this one.

I will attempt this OWC, but I may not have time as there are lot's of assignments due this week.

This degree better get me some good looking women or lot's of money or something, 'cause I'm going through a lot of pain and stress because of it!

Quoted from bert Horror that kids can read. When this has been done in the past, one component of the judging was based upon having Don's kids look over the entries and selecting their favorites. Those thinking of entering might want to keep that in mind as their target audience, should he elect to do that again.

Okay, kiddie horror at the ol' Halloween festival.  Now how do I work machetes and headless corpses into that?  Actually, I'm gonna try and stay within the OWC boundaries this time, cuz I slammed for not doing that in the August challenge.

Ok, you may laugh but I'll still ask:

Family - meaning all ages can watch it (like Enchanted is a family movie) or
Family - meaning there's got to be a family in it?

Quoted from khamanna Ok, you may laugh but I'll still ask: Family - meaning all ages can watch it (like Enchanted is a family movie) or Family - meaning there's got to be a family in it?

Family - meaning all ages can watch it

I think a good movie to use for reference here is Hocus Pocus from the nineties. I always loved that movie as a kid. The only thing about it that I believe would be inappropiate for young kids is the "virgin" joke. Other than that, it fits perfectly into the theme.

--Julio

Here's another one (I should have asked them all at once, sorry):

The theme goes "At this year's Halloween Festival" - the year doesn't not need to be specified, does it? And, regarding the word "festival" - can it be a simple celebration or a very festive celebration...? Hope my questios are not very confusing.

Quoted from khamanna ... The theme goes "At this year's Halloween Festival" - the year doesn't not need to be specified, does it? And, regarding the word "festival" - can it be a simple celebration or a very festive celebration...? Hope my questios are not very confusing.

Any year & however you celebrate Halloween in your neck of the woods.

Quoted from Tommyp I will attempt this OWC, but I may not have time as there are lot's of assignments due this week. This degree better get me some good looking women or lot's of money or something, 'cause I'm going through a lot of pain and stress because of it!

Tommy I can give you a hand if you need it. My buddy Jeff has bailed on me for some reason!!??

Um, that's a hand with the script, not the chickie babes.  And your grammar needs fixin' - a link between  good looking women and Tasmania isn't possible.
Family does not count either...

Quoted from stevie a link between  good looking women and Tasmania isn't possible. Family does not count either...

You know, anyone that isn't an Aussie is not going to get that.  You have to translate.

Tasmania =
In the US    - West Virginia/Arkansas
In Canada   - Newfoundland

Hope that helps.

family horror to me is an asshole man keeping his daughter in the cellar for 20 years and having kids with her and toss in a grandma who abuses her wheelchair bound husband.

I have a feeling that's not what you were thinking Don...

I guess I'm out. there's your backlash!  :)

i was told that khloe kardahian is an example of a family horror...

Quoted from reepercreeper I think a good movie to use for reference here is Hocus Pocus from the nineties.

i would hope we could do better than that!

I would think that it being a "family" horror story - what you in the US would describe as PG rated I suppose, would not restrict it from being scary, just mean that the blood and gore would be removed. It is interesting that horror now is associated with this - I grew up with horror movies (the old Universal and Hammer ones) that could be much more "horrific" than the modern crop with their beheadings and impalings!

Meh! I might give it a try. It's been a long time since I've participated in one of these. Plus, I am inspired because it's my first year in the U.S and thus my first year of actually celebrating Halloween!

I understand how the genre might put you off. I was hoping for straight Horror as well, but we can't always get what we want. I think it could be fun.  

--Julio

From what I saw of the August OWC, some of the interpretations of the theme were decidedly loose! I would suspect that this would be the same this time round.

I already have my idea worked out - it wasn't difficult as it's an idea I have had knocking about for a while and it fits in with the theme (sort of). I quite like the fact that no one knows who's written what - I failed completely to guess who was who last time, though once I knew I realised that it was obvious in some cases!

The guessing game is part of the fun. So, not as to ruin it by accidentally giving it away in a post here, I won't comment further on the OWC in this thread. I will get on with writing my script now...

Good luck to everyone who takes part.

part of the OWC is to complain about the theme. say you're not going to take part...I bet there will still be 40+ entries.

I'm off starting a new feature. can't help myself. I just got to. Big Bad Wolf. totally different than the short. :)

Nice one, Don.

This is a great theme, and I agree that there is a pretty far-reaching base. Interesting to see how people perceive the same stimulus - my original thoughts were geared to something more X-rated than family-friendly. It could even be something much more inward and what a father or mother deems to be 'horror' at another's thoughts, or actions based in a family setting, as opposed to standard horror fare. Unless Don states otherwise, this is a pretty free rein.

Andrew

So far all of my ideas end up in a slaughter.  Family style.

So far all of my ideas have ended up with every swear word in them - even bloody.

There still seem to be some questions here about what exactly family horror is.  Wonder if Don can give us an official ruling.

Quoted from Cam17 There still seem to be some questions here about what exactly family horror is.  Wonder if Don can give us an official ruling.

We've covered this.

Something you could watch with children.

Add comedy.  Make it dark.  Do whatever you want.

As long as you wouldn't need to send the kids out of the room.

He wants you to write something his kids can read without having to feel like he is is warping their young minds by allowing them to read it.

So

- no swearing.
- no sex.
- no graphic gore.

Something the whole family can watch without the younger ones asking "Daddy, what's a turkey slap?"

Quoted from mcornetto He wants you to write something his kids can read without having to feel like he is is warping their young minds by allowing them to read it.

I knew he didn't want me to participate...

I'm getting deleted, huh?  Did I confuse people with my "official" definition?

Funny...  delete away!!!!

Quoted from Dreamscale I'm getting deleted, huh?  Did I confuse people with my "official" definition?

Yes, people were asking "for real" and you were answering "silly" -- and it only muddied the waters.

Quoted from Dreamscale ...delete away!!!!

Will do.

Half time bert? ;)

I was deleted too Jeff.

Quoted from Grandma Bear Half time bert? ;)

Hahaha...somebody knows me to well.

Quoted from Murphy Okay, first question. What is a Family Horror? Are we talking Harry Potter sort of stuff here?

I'll tell you straight up and honest. Family horror is when your grown daughter, 22 years old, must listen to her mother, 47 years old, and her father, 48 years old, make a lot of "sex noise" after engaging too heavily and unable to restrain themselves.

Do we regret it? NOT FOR A MINUTE!!!!  But it sure does make us real. And real obviously includes "Bad!"

Sandra

OK, Sandra, I like that idea.  I'm going to steal it and use it for this OWC.

I'll add a little blood and mystery, and it should work quite well.

Thank you for that idea!

Quoted from Dreamscale OK, Sandra, I like that idea.  I'm going to steal it and use it for this OWC. I'll add a little blood and mystery, and it should work quite well. Thank you for that idea!

Do that, Sweetheart!!!! I really feel like I know you and love you and if you write on this, it would be such a blessing!!!!!!!!

You are close to me, Jeff!!!!!!

Love,

Sandra

Why do birds suddenly appear
Every time Jeffrey's near,
Like Sandra E they long to be
Close to Jeffrey.

Ahhhhhhh!  Ah!  Ah!  Ahhhhhh!

...

Ah...a new possible idea...

Funny!!!!

Well I'm already behind schedule as I've only just checked the theme, bad week work wise but I'll give it a shot.  I guess I should complain about the theme as it's the norm right...god damn family horror! lol.  Actually I think it's a pretty good idea.

It wasn't that difficult of a theme.  If I were going to enter, I would be finished with mine already.

^^ You are such a bad liar.

Alffy, most people think about it for 6 days, then write something in the few hours before, others write it in the first few days.

Work is not an excuse! I am expecting an entry from you, sir.

Quoted from Tommyp Work is not an excuse! I am expecting an entry from you, sir.

Sir, Yes, Sir!  lol.

I'll probably think it about it and then panic I wont finish on time, I'm not the most motivated person in the world until I have to be lol.

So, the location can only be set at the festival or can there be a few scenes that lead up to?

You can have a few extra scenes as long as at least 1 family is slaughtered in that scene.

LOL, OK, delete!!!!!!

I've only been perusing the thread the past couple days, but has anyone thought of "Scooby Doo" as a means of explanation yet?  Family oriented, and usually contains some sort of monster.

Actually, my script is going to be based on Scrappy Doo, Scooby's lil' nephew.

an idea forced itself upon me today, but it's like PG... not sure I can do that. whatever happened to some good old splatter fest type stuff?

Agreed, Pia!  You can defintely do PG, though. I think even PG 13 is fine.  Whether it is or not, mine is going to be pushing the boundaries of "Family Horror".

Update - I do have my idea, and am currently working through the details.  Vodka is helping for sure.

How's everyone else doing so far?

Quoted from Dreamscale Vodka is helping for sure. How's everyone else doing so far?

I'll stick to beer, but yeah, I'll keep this idea in the back of my head and maybe by the time I get home on Friday, I'll sit down and write something.

Like I said. If I were entering, I would be done already.

Quoted from mcornetto Like I said. If I were entering, I would be done already.

Ah, the great and first state! How can you ever begin something unless it's already finished? Yes, it's done already. I think you've already been admitted to entering.  ;D

And with regards to Scooby Doo: I love Scooby Doo, but I think mine will have something to do with Toodle Boo.  ;D

Sandra

I'm half done. I had two seperate ideas but they ended up merging.

Have been trying to think of a good title but it could be hard.

Oh, and to make up for the family limitations for this challenge, i'm doing a special SS Halloween one that isn't family friendly!
I'm gonna post it in the normal short section, maybe next week.

Cheers to all.

PS i mightn't be able to read all the entries this time! I'll see how many there is.

Quoted from stevie I'm half done. I had two seperate ideas but they ended up merging. Have been trying to think of a good title but it could be hard. Oh, and to make up for the family limitations for this challenge, i'm doing a special SS Halloween one that isn't family friendly! I'm gonna post it in the normal short section, maybe next week. Cheers to all. PS i mightn't be able to read all the entries this time! I'll see how many there is.

Excellent Stevie!  :)

Sandra

Quoted from Dreamscale Actually, my script is going to be based on Scrappy Doo, Scooby's lil' nephew.

As long as you stay away from comedy, you should be fine.

Quoted from Shelton As long as you stay away from comedy, you should be fine.

Translation: You aren't very good at comedy....

oooOOoOOoOooOooOOo fight fight fight!

I think I might give this one a try, albeit, seeing the thread three days late. These one week challenges could be just the thing to get me back into the swing of writing.

Quoted from Tommyp Translation: You aren't very good at comedy.... oooOOoOOoOooOooOOo fight fight fight!

No OWC fights....

And I mean it!

Quoted from stevie I'm half done

Don't you just hate a smart arse?  I've got nothing, and all you can do is rub my face in it. Lol.

Seriously though, the Halloween festival thing, is this just the Halloween night shenanigans?  Us Brits do little more than put on a naff costume and get pissed, and the costumes optional of course.

I'm interpreting Halloween festival to be an Autumn Type Harvest Fair that corresponds with Halloween (with costumes and such). Here's a link to one.

http://www.topsfieldfair.org/

Right, cheers Blakkwolfe.  I have no idea what one of those festivals is mind so I guess I'll do my best and if it doesn't meet the genre I'll just sulk in the corner.

Halloween has become sort of popular over here the last few years. Kids in our neighbourhood come round for lollies and stuff.

The general Aussie public don't really think we should be recognising it cos its an AMerican thing.
Though i think i read somewhere once that its traditions started in Europe?

I'm still having trouble with even a remotely good title. And sneaking in the obligatory Beatle ref is proving tough too.

It isn't an American thing.

Quoted Text It all began in what is now France and the British Isles. It was started by the Celtic people long ago.... The Celtic people feared the night of October 31. It was the night of their festival of Samhain, Lord of the Dead. The Celtics feared Samhain and in order to please him, the Druids (Celtic priests) held cruel fire rites in his honor. They made huge bonfires every year at this time. The bonfires were usually made of oak and considered sacred. At this festival, the Druids made sacrifices to the gods. They burned criminals, prisoners, and animals alive. By observing the victims die, the Druids saw omens of the future, both good and bad. The powers to make predictions of the future were thought to be strongest on this night. Why? It was because the Druids believed that the spirits were allowed to roam free on this night of the year. The Druids believed the spirits were powerful and wild on this night, and if they were treated right, they would help with predictions of the future. However, if the spirits were ignored, they would punish the Celtic community. The Druids believed that, above powerful and wild, some spirits were evil. This is why the Celtic people wore costumes during the Samhain festival. The purpose of the costumes was to frighten the spirits. Plus, this way, the spirits wouldn't be able to recognize them. (This is the origin of costumes.) To please the spirits, the Celtic people left food outside their houses on Halloween. If any hungry spirits came by, they could take the food and leave the Celtics in peace. (This is the origin of 'trick or treat'ing.)

Excellent information, Michael!  

Family Horror. Hmmm...........let's see.............

Why does this OWC make me feel like a scriptwriter for adult porn being asked to write the world's first G porn movie at a family gathering? It can't be done.

Certain nature documentaries are G-rated porn.

Quoted from mcornetto It all began in what is now France and the British Isles. It was started by the Celtic people long ago.... The Celtic people feared the night of October 31. It was the night of their festival of Samhain, Lord of the Dead. The Celtics feared Samhain and in order to please him, the Druids (Celtic priests) held cruel fire rites in his honor. They made huge bonfires every year at this time. The bonfires were usually made of oak and considered sacred. At this festival, the Druids made sacrifices to the gods. They burned criminals, prisoners, and animals alive. By observing the victims die, the Druids saw omens of the future, both good and bad. The powers to make predictions of the future were thought to be strongest on this night. Why? It was because the Druids believed that the spirits were allowed to roam free on this night of the year. The Druids believed the spirits were powerful and wild on this night, and if they were treated right, they would help with predictions of the future. However, if the spirits were ignored, they would punish the Celtic community. The Druids believed that, above powerful and wild, some spirits were evil. This is why the Celtic people wore costumes during the Samhain festival. The purpose of the costumes was to frighten the spirits. Plus, this way, the spirits wouldn't be able to recognize them. (This is the origin of costumes.) To please the spirits, the Celtic people left food outside their houses on Halloween. If any hungry spirits came by, they could take the food and leave the Celtics in peace. (This is the origin of 'trick or treat'ing.)

And not only that, but they had fun too.  ;D

Sandra

Quoted from grademan Why does this OWC make me feel like a scriptwriter for adult porn being asked to write the world's first G porn movie at a family gathering? It can't be done.

I dun know Gary, but I'm a bad girl that's managed to write something very bad and edit it to an extent where I have just under 13 pages that contains only 'orror'. I'm glad too. I was starting to get a complex. (Still got it mind you, but it's wearing off a little) ;)

Sandra

I wrote something, now got to make it horror and about Halloween. Word family really got me off track - here's your bachalanian mood - family horror is not for everyone.  

Shit. It has to be set at a Halloween Festival? I've just written a script which takes place in a basement. :P

Quoted from Split Second Shit. It has to be set at a Halloween Festival? I've just written a script which takes place in a basement. :P

please see quote # 26, 28,29 about Halloween Festival.

Quoted from Blakkwolfe I'm interpreting Halloween festival to be an Autumn Type Harvest Fair that corresponds with Halloween (with costumes and such). Here's a link to one. http://www.topsfieldfair.org/

Isn't this more like a 4H fair?

When I think of a Halloween festival it is more of a place where you pay to enter a Haunted house or take a haunted hay ride, have your cards read, eat a carmal apples or have some hot chocolate.

I guess it's whatever you consider a halloween festival to be.

Any festival in which Druid priests make offerings to the spirits, involving lots of blood, death, dismemberment, and chaos.

For me: Halloween festival = halloween celebration = whatever you do on halloween, including watching a scary movie all night long, going out for a candy when you're old and not supposed to, going to a festival (whatever that might be), going to a Zoo and stand in long lines for a couple of plastic spiders lollypop and face painting etc.

Quoted from alffy Right, cheers Blakkwolfe.  I have no idea what one of those festivals is mind so I guess I'll do my best and if it doesn't meet the genre I'll just sulk in the corner.

The Fall Festival in our town has people dress up in costumes, where they have hay rides on wagons, maybe bobbing for apples, fall/halloween crafts for the kids to do.  Maybe they have a local band play.  Not fancy but a reason for folks to get together.  We still have trick or treat night on another day, but kids seem to like the Fall Festival thing.

Quoted from khamanna Question: Can it be a comedy as well as horror?

Life is both comedy and horror; so I think that happens by default.  ;D

Sandra

The last question just had me wondering, "Did I write comedy in my submission?" "Did I submit?" Well that all depends on what that means within context.  ;D

Sandra

What submission, Sandra?  Are you already done with your OWC?  You've already submitted it?

NO COMEDY!!!

HORROR!!!

Head chomping, limb separating horror only!

Quoted from Dreamscale What submission, Sandra?  Are you already done with your OWC?  You've already submitted it? NO COMEDY!!! HORROR!!! Head chomping, limb separating horror only!

But what if you find Head chomping, and limb separating funny?

Quoted from Dreamscale What submission, Sandra?  Are you already done with your OWC?  You've already submitted it? NO COMEDY!!! HORROR!!! Head chomping, limb separating horror only!

Horror only, huh? But someone said it could be read by kids. So, head chomping, limb separating, etc?? :-/

Quoted from Split Second Shit. It has to be set at a Halloween Festival? I've just written a script which takes place in a basement. :P

In my mind, the basement is a perfect place for a Halloween Festival!!!! Who ever told you it has to be someplace else???  ;)

I'm looking forward to reading your script.

Sandra

I'm kidding.  I wish I wasn't kidding, but I am.  You can write whatever you want to in whatever way you want to.

Quoted from Valkyrie Horror only, huh? But someone said it could be read by kids. So, head chomping, limb separating, etc?? :-/

Mr. Dreamscale is being tongue in cheek, here.  he is a horror purist, so to speak, but yes, this OWC theme is family horror, meaning yes, the whole family should be able to watch it comfortably.

My Festival is taking place in a dungeon, below a basement.  It will be very funny!

Quoted from Dreamscale What submission, Sandra?  Are you already done with your OWC?  You've already submitted it? NO COMEDY!!! HORROR!!! Head chomping, limb separating horror only!

My "another" sweetheart, Jeff. Yes, I'm done. I need to pack to leave for Buffalo tomorrow and I can tell you that this has been a record set for myself in terms of research and writing that occurred over the span of 3 dedicated days.

I love 3 so I guess that's a good thing. It's been a great challenge and I'm thankful to have been able to participate.

Regarding "What is horror?" I wouldn't think of breaking rules when sending to a READER, but in my mind, I believe horror is purely subjective!!!! ...

For instance: Someone who's terrified of who-knows-what. Maybe, maybe their terrified of open spaces. I think they call that agoraphobia. For an individual suffering from this, they would experience horrific sensations!!!! That qualifies as horror to me.

Although we all tend to equate horror with blood and gore: horror=bloody gore, we think. It's only a broad and weak basis from which to base any story.

That's why so many people often think they can write something really mind shattering and capture the audience's attention. Personally, I am so immune because my mind can envision some extreme negatives and when I do, it's not purposeless. Thus:

If the writer writes extreme negatives without purpose, then it results in an empty worthless dog of a script that stands on a rickety foundation.

Jeff, there's nothing wrong with you desiring to write "head chomping" horror. You only need to give a purpose to it.

Sandra

Quoted Text Horror Films are unsettling films designed to frighten and panic, cause dread and alarm, and to invoke our hidden worst fears, often in a terrifying, shocking finale, while captivating and entertaining us at the same time in a cathartic experience. Horror films effectively center on the dark side of life, the forbidden, and strange and alarming events. They deal with our most primal nature and its fears: our nightmares, our vulnerability, our alienation, our revulsions, our terror of the unknown, our fear of death and dismemberment, loss of identity, or fear of sexuality. Whatever dark, primitive, and revolting traits that simultaneously attract and repel us are featured in the horror genre. Horror films are often combined with science fiction when the menace or monster is related to a corruption of technology, or when Earth is threatened by aliens. The fantasy and supernatural film genres are not synonymous with the horror genre, although thriller films may have some relation when they focus on the revolting and horrible acts of the killer/madman. Horror films are also known as chillers, scary movies, spookfests, and the macabre.

Quote from Michael:

"Horror Films are unsettling films designed to frighten and panic, cause dread and alarm, and to invoke our hidden worst fears, often in a terrifying, shocking finale, while captivating and entertaining us at the same time in a cathartic experience. Horror films effectively center on the dark side of life, the forbidden, and strange and alarming events. They deal with our most primal nature and its fears: our nightmares, our vulnerability, our alienation, our revulsions, our terror of the unknown, our fear of death and dismemberment, loss of identity, or fear of sexuality.

Whatever dark, primitive, and revolting traits that simultaneously attract and repel us are featured in the horror genre. Horror films are often combined with science fiction when the menace or monster is related to a corruption of technology, or when Earth is threatened by aliens. The fantasy and supernatural film genres are not synonymous with the horror genre, although thriller films may have some relation when they focus on the revolting and horrible acts of the killer/madman. Horror films are also known as chillers, scary movies, spookfests, and the macabre."

You know what I'm always asking? Who says so? Who wrote that? Wikipedia? A group of analysts who decided that "Yes, this is so."

My challenge is always to accept what's written and also to add to it. That's what writers do. With regard to that:

If someone FREAKS!!!! Because sitting on a toilet because they think a snake is going to crawl somewhere unimagined, then, that, to me qualifies as horror.

That snake is capable of doing all the damage. The cutting, the gouging... and every much so as the swift slice of a machete. Indeed, the snake might EXTEND the pain to a degree where the machete seems, by comparison, sweet.

Sandra

Fear of the snake crawling up the toilet is drama.  The snake actually crawling up that toilet is when the horror begins.

Quoted from mcornetto Fear of the snake crawling up the toilet is drama.  The snake actually crawling up that toilet is when the horror begins.

LOL!!! You are so sweet!!! I send you a big HEART!!! I will kill any snake that tries to hurt you!!!!  ;)

Sandra

Jeff, we should go together to the movies sometime! We're speaking the same language when it comes to horror. Not sure I'll have anything finished by Friday, but I might try. After all, I like scaring the crap out of children...

Quoted from Grandma Bear Jeff, we should go together to the movies sometime! We're speaking the same language when it comes to horror. Not sure I'll have anything finished by Friday, but I might try. After all, I like scaring the crap out of children...

So it was YOU!!!!!!!  ;)

Sandra

Dumb question...
Does it have to be strictly at a Festival??

Genre: Family Horror
Theme: At this year's Halloween Festival, strange things are happening.

While the theme is that strange things are happening at the festival, it doesn't say the script has to occur at the festival - though in someway the festival should be incorporated enough to qualify as the theme.

You won't be disqualified for not writing about the theme or not using the genre - however - you will probably be bombarded with the fact that you didn't in your review thread.

Quoted from Valkyrie Dumb question... Does it have to be strictly at a Festival??

There are no dumb questions. Whatever you deem a "Festival" to be-- that is a "Festival". But many here will disagree with that interpretation and say that it must be like a Granville Island Market. (Jordon knows) ... and that's OK with me too, because it brings The Grocery in Thief all the more alive to me.  ;)

Sandra

Well I've wrote a script (or have I) and frankly I hate it (if I had wrote one).  I'm struggling for time do anything with it (if I have something) and the paranoia of submitting an awful piece (if I have one) is killing me.  Is anyone else struggling to write a 'family horror'?

(The above statement, in no way suggests the memeber has indeed wrote, or attempted to write, a script for the October One Week Challenge).

OK, Pia, it's a date!  We'll have to go Dutch, though.

If I were writing an OWC script this time around, I would imagine that I would be struggling as well, but since I'm not, it's a mute point.

Eh, if you've written something - I'd submit it. If you're finding this genre hard, then submit what you've written and read the feedback you get from it. That way, you'll be more equipped in writing that genre.

I'm not exactly happy with my piece, but I'm going to submit it nonetheless. See what I'm doing right and wrong, etc.

If I had written a script for this OWC that I wasn't happy with, I'd submit it and then threaten all the readers, that if they didn't like it, and write negative comments, I'd sick Baltis on them. If that didn't work, I'd threaten them with Stevie or Tommy.

But since I'm not writing an OWC script this time around, it means that I won't be unhappy with it, and I won't have to worry about submitting it or sicking Baltis, Stevie, or Tommy on anyone.

Quoted from Split Second Eh, if you've written something - I'd submit it.

I disagree.  I would never submit something that I did not think was good.

Too often people are too quick to slap any old thing up here on the boards.

There may be 40 submissions to read this time.  Perhaps more.

If you know what you have written is not your best work -- or even good work -- please do not waste people's time with it.

Taking what Bert said 1 step further...if you don't think I'll like it, please don't submit it.

If there are more than 4 mistakes, please don't submit it.

If there aren't any decapitations, please don't submit it.

If there is any comedy, please don't submit it.

I had absolutely no problem with this OWC as I dislike violent and gory movies anyway and prefer an older (tamer, if you will) horror film - I lean more towards psychological horror if anything, where the things unseen are by far the more frightening.

Anyway, for better or for for worse, mine is now submitted.

It'll be interesting to see how much of a variety of different approaches are taken to this OWC. I'll be attempting to read and comment on as many as I can - I did embarrassingly few of the August one, so want to try to make up for it.

Isn't it all too exciting!

Hey Jeff, to answer your questions

Probably

No

Yes

So that's a 'don't submit it' then lol.

i had mine half done then got stuck really bad with the ending. Well, i could've finished it but it would've been 20 pages.
I've been really sick the last 2 days and thought i might have to not submit.
But feeling a little better today and had a new idea. I can salvage what i have and go with a new slant.
Half the problem has been thinking of the adult one i'm gonna put up as a normal script. I have it all written in my head right now, maybe 30 pages or so.
Some of the SS crew get a guernsey in this, so LOOK OUT!

It's not that I don't like what I've written, I'm just not sure it's a great script. Then again, I don't really think I can write a great script yet. I'm going to submit it, because that's the only way I'm ever going to learn. I've never had a go at this genre before, and I enjoyed writing so I want to hear what people think. Sorry if it came out any other way.

Why is it so hard not to kill people?  I can't seem to do it.  I'm glad to see I'm in good company though.  :)

I still dream of an OWC that caters to us gore hounds...

Btw Niles, I like all types of horror.  :-)

Obviously, I continue to kid around here.  Submit whatever you've got.  It is a great exercise and a great way to learn and get feedback.

Pia, I hear, ya...someday...maybe...someday.  Until then, I guess we have to suck it up and present something that won't offend...too much.  We'll see.

Still haven't written a single page, and that's the truth!  Does that mean I won't be submitting an entry, or does that mean the vodka hasn't melted my brain enough to create?  Not sure, really.  But rest assured, I am drinking at the moment.

Maybe a shot of Jagie will help?  Yes!  When doesn't it help?  It always helps.

Quoted from Grandma Bear I still dream of an OWC that caters to us gore hounds...

Agreed.  The most entries -- and the most reads -- even from nonparticipants in the challenge.

We just need to keep beating that drum until it happens someday...

To mean, Horror means scaring people really bad.  Heads and limbs flying around plus blood gushing everywhere is slasher.  They're two different animals.

I've written a page and a half and suddenly the words stopped flowing so easily from my penny pencil.  It's gonna be tight if I can make it. . . .

Quoted from steven8 To mean, Horror means scaring people really bad.  Heads and limbs flying around plus blood gushing everywhere is slasher.  They're two different animals.

I think I would disagree with you there...

Quoted from Grandma Bear I think I would disagree with you there...

That's ok.  Plenty of room for all kinds of thinking in this world.

As usual, I have to agree with my dearest Pia (do I sound like Sandra with the "dearest" comment?).

"Slasher" and "heads and limbs flying around plus blood gushing everywhere" do not neccessarily go hand in hand...at all.  I mean, seriously, look at a few of the Grand Daddy's of slasher Heaven...Halloween for instance is basically blood free.

Slasher fare just means that there is a (usually) a masked or faceless killer, stalking people, usually kids.

Heads  and limbs flying can be any genre, actually.  It's just a hardcore aspect that I feel horror should always portray.  It does go hand in hand, whether or not those hands are still connected to a body or not.  It's an R rating...it's violence for violence's sake.

I truly would love to se an OWC in this nature.  It's a tough thing to pull off successfully, actually.  It's easy to throw all the blood and guts and over the top violence in a script or onscreen...but to make it work...to make it hit home is another story completely.

Pia, are you cool with going Dutch to the movies?  I'd feel better that way (and since I'm still an unemployed bum it would work better for my meager bank account).

HaHa! Funny shit!  49 hours or so to go...shit!  I gotta get my big old, ass in gear!  

Quoted from Dreamscale (do I sound like Sandra with the "dearest" comment?).

You always sound like Fred Flintstone when I read your comments. Wilma!!

I don't know.  I think certain movies aren't really that scary.  After reading a bunch of horror scripts over at Movie Poet this month... I'm willing to go out on a limb and say that slasher movies aren't really scary.  They're more of a Crime Drama with lots of blood and guts.  They might make you squirm a bit, but watching an operation might do the same.  I know I squirmed a lot the first time I ever saw a baby being delivered - did it scare me - no - but it really grossed me out.

That isn't to say that blood and guts can't be scary, just that it isn't usually in slasher movies.  The same pretty much goes for torture porn.  They might be squirm worthy or might gross you out but they aren't actually scary - you don't leave them afraid that some psycho killer is going to knock down your door and slice your Achilles tendon.   Whether scary is an effective way to judge horror may be too subjective.

Quoted from bert I disagree.  I would never submit something that I did not think was good. Too often people are too quick to slap any old thing up here on the boards. There may be 40 submissions to read this time.  Perhaps more. If you know what you have written is not your best work -- or even good work -- please do not waste people's time with it.

I don't think it would be a waste of time. The worst thing you can do as a writer is judging your own work. This will only shorten your creativity. You can feel is not good enough (for you) but others might not think like that. What if it's great?!

Think about it.  ;)

The problem I'm having is with the 'family' element.  I guess it can't be too scary and gore's a no-no so I'm struggling to keep it interesting.  I'm not sure I can create a character driven family horror in 12 pages lol.  I'm trying to stay away from slap-stick comedy (I'm sure some will sneak in) so maybe animation is the way to go?  I just need more time!!!  Yet I somehow find the time to browse the boards here lol.

Quoted from Valkyrie I don't think it would be a waste of time. The worst thing you can do as a writer is judging your own work. This will only shorten your creativity. You can feel is not good enough (for you) but others might not think like that. What if it's great?!

While I was speaking to no one in particular, Valkyrie, once you have spent a bit more time on these boards, you will recognize the type I am speaking to.  I did not intend to elaborate on this, but perhaps it is important to clarify.

There are scripts that are poorly written -- and then a plethora of reviews affirming that the script is poorly written -- and then the author's response:

"Yeah, I know this sucks -- it is just a piece of garbage I crapped out in 15 minutes and posted to see what people think."

I paraphrase here, of course -- but this is NOT uncommon -- and these are the people I am asking to refrain.

Not the people who wonder if their work is good, but those who know it is not, who have put forth only the most minimal of effort -- and could care less.

They selfishly undermine the whole process.

Quoted from bert There are scripts that are poorly written -- and then a plethora of reviews affirming that the script is poorly written -- and then the author's response: "Yeah, I know this sucks -- it is just a piece of garbage I crapped out in 15 minutes and posted to see what people think."

I fear I may have started a bit of an arguement here?  I did say I was having doubts about my OWC offering but I know, when completed, if it is not of a decent standard I won't be submitting it.

I agree entirely with you bert, way too many scripts get posted by people who knock them out for fun and then bitch when they are badly recieved.  I wouldn't think about submitting something I wasn't happy with, afterall, if I don't think it's good, why would anyone else?

That wasn't what I was trying to say Bert, if that's how it came out. But if you've tried on a script, but you're unsure of its quality, I still think there's some criticsm which can help you out next time round. I mean, you could post something you're not sure of; but if one person reads it and gives you some good advice on what you can improve; surely your next script can build on that advice. That's what I was trying to say, anyway.

Quoted from Split Second That wasn't what I was trying to say Bert, if that's how it came out. But if you've tried on a script, but you're unsure of its quality, I still think there's some criticsm which can help you out next time round. I mean, you could post something you're not sure of; but if one person reads it and gives you some good advice on what you can improve; surely your next script can build on that advice. That's what I was trying to say, anyway.

This is what I was trying to say, Bert. If you don't want to submmit your work coz you think it's not good, you can be missing a lot of good advice. Even if it's just something you wrote in 15 minutes, it can still have something to work with so you can make it better. Don't you think? of course, everyone is free to do whatever they want.  ;D

Val, I think what Bert is trying to say is that there are a number of writers who participate in these OWC's, and most take it seriously.  When people throw something together, and don't take it seriously, they take away from the reads of those who really do care...and want feedback that will help them.

If you can write a decent script in 15 minutes, then more power to ya, but I highly doubt that's the case, the vast majority of the time.

If you do take this seriously, whether or not you've written a good or even decent script, you should submit it for sure.  It's those that submit garbage that takes away from what this is supposed to be.  Writing a 12 page script on an unknown subject and theme isn't always that easy for most and requires time and effort.

That's what we're talking about.  Take it seriously, spend the neccessary time, and enjoy this for what it is...a challenge and a great learning tool, in which lots of other writers will offer their advice and help.

Cool?

Quoted from Dreamscale Cool?

I don't think Val is arguing -- I certainly do not take it that way.

And I certainly do not want to discourage someone from participating -- least of all someone like Val, completely new to the boards.

Perhaps my concerns will not even be realized -- that would be great.

But if there is one of those -- or more -- then Val will see what I am talking about -- and then I will think no less of Val when he says, "That jerk...what is he even doing here?"

Right on, Bert!  I hear ya and agree with you all the way.

6 pages done, and the rest is pretty much mapped out in my hot little head (actually, my pumpkin-sized gourd of a head).  I'm very happy with my script so far.  I will make the deadline and it's going to ROCK!

Oh, wait a minute...what am I saying?  Did I just say I was defintely entering a script?  I didn't mean that.  I meant that if I was going to enter a script, I'd probably be about 6 pages into it at this point, and I should be able to finish it on time.  That's what I meant...

So I'm skimming through this thread just to see what people have to say concerning the theme and genre since there are always people who object to it (and I admit, I've done it before, as well). I see that some people say that they can't simply poop out a script that doesn't contain sex, nudity, or any gore or swearing because it's not their thang. So, take that stuff out, and then once the challenge is over, maybe poop out another script, add in all the sex, nudity, or any gore or swearing you want, and just add "Unrated" at the end of the title, then re-submit. That way, you can participate in the challenge, and still have fun afterward, entertaining audiences everywhere!

Sean

Wow. Way to be a peacekeeper Sean.

--Julio

Quoted from ReaperCreeper Wow. Way to be a peacekeeper Sean. --Julio

Yeah, I get teased about it by all the other zombies out there.

Sean

Quoted from bert I don't think Val is arguing -- I certainly do not take it that way. And I certainly do not want to discourage someone from participating -- least of all someone like Val, completely new to the boards. Perhaps my concerns will not even be realized -- that would be great. But if there is one of those -- or more -- then Val will see what I am talking about -- and then I will think no less of Val when he says, "That jerk...what is he even doing here?"

You're right Bert. I'm not arguing. That was never my intention. I was just expressing my opinion about what you said. That's all.
I'm almost sure that there are (or will be) "some of those" around. And that's ok. But like someone said: 'This is just for fun'.

Anyone having trouble with the 'family' thing?
Four pages now but can't seem to go on. Don't think I'll make it.
Guess I'll try for the November OWC.

You can do it Valkyrie. What's so difficult about the family thing.

It doesn't have to be about a family - it just needs to have no swearing, no sex, and no excessive gore.  If you have to  write those into your script then do what Sean sensibly suggested and take them out after you've written it.  Later you can post an unrated version.

C'mon, Val!  Don't give up so easy.  You can easily do it.  You've still got another 22  1/2 hours.  No problem.

Pia, where are you in your script?  Any blood or swearing yet?

Just submitted mine.

Typical, I've just come up with a great idea.  Damn my slow burning imagination!

I ran out of pages!  I had to go back and completely cut a scene as well as lose a character.  I'm still 2 pages over...SHIT!!!!!  back to the drawing board.

Hey, Jeff
I'm getting back into this at the tail end. Started last Friday, got pulled away, but jumped back in Wednesday night. I looked through the thread but still wonder: can I assume at the very least that as a Family Horror flick this would fall into the Disney category, but could also be GP material?
Your thoughts?
Lew

I think it could go as high as PG13 even.  Disney feel is probably correct, but IMO it doesn't have to be completely watered down.

I bet ya, we'll see a wide range of "Family Horror", just like we did in the "Romantic Comedy/Dramedy" theme in the last OWC.

I wouldn't worry about it too much.  If it doesn't meet the challenge, so be it.

Good luck on it!  I've got a ways to go to finish this within the 12 page limit.  Lots of cutting and chopping, in a non horror-like way!

I won't be able to take part.

Haven't written one word yet and I have a feeling I won't be very good as the evening progresses...  ;D

I'll try to read a few though.

Pia!  What?  Huh?  2 OWC's in a row and no Pia entries?  This is very upsetting news.

I feel crushed.  My weekend is now shot.  Speaking of shots...hmmm...maybe that would help?  7 1/2 hours to go!

I was going to take part, even wrote the outline.  But I haven't even had the time to start it as I bought Heroes series 3 on Monday and completed all the episodes by last night.

I'd like to write it and submit it as my Halloween effect anyway.

;D Jeff!

I've actually been busy writing features. Yeah sure they suck, but I think I'm getting better.

Roach Motel is being shown to CAA in a couple of weeks. I'm keeping my fingers crossed for that.  

Shots?!!!  I'll stick to beer. I'm a simple person.  :)

Quoted from mcornetto You can do it Valkyrie. What's so difficult about the family thing. It doesn't have to be about a family - it just needs to have no swearing, no sex, and no excessive gore.  If you have to  write those into your script then do what Sean sensibly suggested and take them out after you've written it.  Later you can post an unrated version.

I think the family thing is getting difficult due to my 'excessive' lack of...... horror. Hahahaha. No, just kidding. I think I finally capture the family idea but the problem now is that I don't have enough time to wite it down. My full-time job is keeping me away from my goal.

I'll try anyway, and if I can't make it for tonight I'll post it for the Horror section.......some other day.

Submitted mine but haven't gotten the confirmation upon receipt yet. Hmm.... Is there supposed to be a confirmation? I think last time I received one.

I wonder if it's website generated and if people get it right away... Forgot how it was the last time. Hmm... I'm just an overly worried person.

If I don't receive one I'll come back here and write several paragraphs more about "confirmation" and how I miss one and how wonderful it would be to receive one... and get quiet... And calm... And back to normal, whatever that is.

I haven't had any confirmation - but then again, I wasn't expecting one, so until you mentioned it, didn't know I might be missing it!

It's sent manually and Don will send it once he processes the scripts.

so...you're all admitting to have submitted something...it's supposed to be a secret

Ah ha, so now we know Niles and khamanna are both in...interesting...very interesting.

Oh, manually - I get it, thanks.

So Pia, your comments of 'not entering' could be just a smoke screen?

Quoted from Grandma Bear so...you're all admitting to have submitted something...it's supposed to be a secret

A secret? I love secrets, I should have kept it a secret... Ahhhh!

I see...... I'm one of the few that haven't posted anything yet. That's frustrating. I stayed up really late last night and only wrote 4 pages (that now I want to delete them all). More frustration.  :-/

Just as long as you've not put your name on your enrty it'll be fine, as there will be a lot of entries.

Alffy...that's a damn good point.  I didn't even think about that.  You're on top of it, bud!

Pia?  Could this be true?

One of my cats just ate my script, so it looks like I'm out as well.  Damnit!  My script was seriously the "Showgirls" of shorts.  It was a pure masterpiece!  I'm so upset.

No one is admitting anything. This whole thread has been an illusion.

Quoted from alffy So Pia, your comments of 'not entering' could be just a smoke screen?

no, I was being honest, but I have written entries totally smashed in the 11th hour before, so who knows what will happen. ;D

I'm drinking a strawberry Crush.  Is that an illusion, or could it be reality?

Illusion?

Confusion... mission, superstition, admonition, devastation, confirmation... confirmation...

Ups, I'm back at confirmation again. My brain works in circles!

Quoted from Dreamscale I'm drinking a strawberry Crush.  Is that an illusion, or could it be reality?

Fruity stuff?

Quoted from khamanna Illusion? Ups, I'm back at confirmation again. My brain works in circles!

Aha!!! you sent yours in via UPS!!!

Slash away!

Quoted from Grandma Bear Aha!!! you sent yours in via UPS!!!

It's a SECRET!

Very fruity stuff.  SWEET!  Gotta coat my stomach...have this funny feeling tonight could be a drinking night!  And that ain't no illusion!

Quoted from Grandma Bear so...you're all admitting to have submitted something...it's supposed to be a secret

I thought we were just not supposed to put our name on the script, and that was the secret.  Oh well, I didn't really submit one anyway!  Ha!  :)

Quoted from steven8 I thought we were just not supposed to put our name on the script, and that was the secret.  Oh well, I didn't really submit one anyway!  Ha!  :)

Trained to read between the lines I read "It's UPS for me too! UPS may not be good though as I haven't received the confirmation yet"

To that I say: I haven't received one either, Steven. It's been sent manually, so don't worry about it. I know I don't! Worry about a confirmation... I think...

Quoted from steven8 I thought we were just not supposed to put our name on the script, and that was the secret.  Oh well, I didn't really submit one anyway!  Ha!  :)

It's just the traditional keep-em-guessing entry ritual.  It made much more sense in the early days when everyone knew everyone else's writing.  It's not as meaningful now but it would be nice to keep the tradition alive.  

IF i was submitting one, I'd still have half a page to cut.

This is a tough challenge. But then i wouldn't know, unless i decide to put one in.

If i submit, I think i have till 1 pm local time.

If i don't submit, well, it doesn't matter what bloody time it is.

PS just thought of a good title but probably won't need it, will I?

Quoted from stevie IF i was submitting one, I'd still have half a page to cut. This is a tough challenge. But then i wouldn't know, unless i decide to put one in. If i submit, I think i have till 1 pm local time. If i don't submit, well, it doesn't matter what bloody time it is. PS just thought of a good title but probably won't need it, will I?

:D 8) ;D :P IF I meant all those smiley faces, this post would mean something, but it doesn't so just ignore what I have said and concentrate on what I haven't.

approx six hours left to go.

Uhhh, how about 4 1/2 hours to go?

I'm going by the server clock which would make it about 5 1/2 hours.  

Isn't the deadline 12:00 AM EST?  If it is, we're at just over 4 hours now.

IF i was submitting something, i may, just may have, submitted it just then.

Is no one chatting tonight?

Am I correct that there is approximately 1 hour left at this point?

Quoted from Dreamscale Am I correct that there is approximately 1 hour left at this point?

Yep, approximately. . . .

Don's post on the home page says 11:49 EST.  Now I'm scared.  Those extra 11 minutes will make a difference.

Anyone know the real deal?  HELP!!!!  

Quoted from Dreamscale Don's post on the home page says 11:49 EST.  Now I'm scared.  Those extra 11 minutes will make a difference. Anyone know the real deal?  HELP!!!!

Not me.  Just write, boy. . .WRITE!!!!

Quoted from Don Genre: Family Horror Theme: At this year's Halloween Festival, strange things are happening. You must write a script (properly formatted) 12 pages or less (courier 12 point font). The scripts must be received by Friday, October 16th 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. Please submit your work to October OWC, here.

It's not me...if I was going to be entering, I'd be done by now.  It's a friend, who is scrambling to complete it!

It says 11:49 on the home page...am I nuts...drunk...hmmm, I just checked and that's what I see.

Oh edt. That means you have nine minutes left

Well, just tell your friend it's 7 minutes until 11:49 by my clock, so they'd better just be safe and get it in now!!  Just write THE END and hit SEND!!  :)

Looking forward to reading these!!!

Dammit. I also thought I had an hour to finish. Screw this. I'm too early in to finish it in time.


--Julio

Is there a 4 minute reprieve?  PLease!!!!

Damn I didn't even know about this.  I should keep a closer eye.


I'll never get to participate. haha

What up, Slab?  Where you been, bud?  You snooze...you...well, you know.

Been workin and tending to my ladylove.


I think some of these shorts are gonna be fun to read tho.

OH YEAH!!!  Your ladylove!  Gotta like that shit!

They will be fun to read...especially mine, that is if I submitted anything.

Ya never know, brother!

Hope all is well.

Alight...so we're all closed here now?  Everyone in who wants to be in?

Where did everyone go?

Pia, you in?

Baltis, I';m sure you're in, right?

Time for a Jager...whos' in with me?

As long as your friend got in, I'd say we're finished here!

No Jager for me, thank you.  But thanks for the offer.

I'm curious to see if I wrote something.

Don closed mine out, damnit!  Unreal!  Iwas like 6 minutes lte.  I'm pissed.  Oh well, guess I'll just post it later. It was really good.

That sucks.  I spent all week writing it.  Guess I'm too slow.  I'll try harder nxt time.

FUCK!!!!

Quoted from Dreamscale Don closed mine out, damnit!  Unreal!  Iwas like 6 minutes lte.  I'm pissed.  Oh well, guess I'll just post it later. It was really good. That sucks.  I spent all week writing it.  Guess I'm too slow.  I'll try harder nxt time. FUCK!!!!

Aw man.  Sorry you didn't make it, Jeff.  Better luck next time!

I have received my confirmation thankfully - now I can look forward to my script being torn to pieces on the board and my fragile self esteem being shattered!

I haven't received a confirmation, but I would have, if I'd entered anything.  Then I could look forward to having my script torn apart on the board!  Oh well.

I may have gotten a confirmation had I entered.  Or perhaps it's in my junk mail folder?  Or perhaps it's a piece of junk mail that I haven't opened yet.

Either way, it will be fun giving some of these a read. Looking forward to it.

You would have received a ....?

You playing with my mind! I want one! I need one! I need...

You need a mind?  ;-)

Quoted from mcornetto You need a mind?  ;-)

Never needed one yet.

Quoted from mcornetto You need a mind?  ;-)

:)

Sometime soon - I'm certtainly loosing mine.

Have you all received your confirmation via e-mail?

I did a check of my emails and generally Don sends out an email telling people that their script was accepted into the OWC.  He doesn't do this immediately so you may have to wait until tomorrow or even the next day.

If you went through the OWC entry form and you uploaded the script and didn't get any errors then there's a 99.9% chance he has your script and I wouldn't worry about it. You will probably get an email tomorrow saying just that.  

Ok, I'll stop worrying!

But people need to stop bragging about confirmation!

Quoted from khamanna Ok, I'll stop worrying! But people need to stop bragging about confirmation!

I can neither confirm nor deny that.

S-o-o if i get a confirmation from Don, that means i entered...

right?


ok now to get cracking on my alternate OWC. A non family horror/sex/ swearing type of thing

The only confirmation that I got was that my script sucked.

Jeff, are you sure you didn't read my script by mistake...oh wait I didn't write one did I.

Maybe no one actually submitted a script this time around.  If that's the case, Don doesn't have any confirmations to send out.

I didn't write one... been flat out with Uni lately.

Looking forward to do a bit of reading of them all soon.

There'll be at least one!

Given how much posting this board has generated before a single script has been seen, it'll be interesting to see how much feedback the entries get when they are up.

Good job, Niles.  Glad we'll have 1 entry at least.  Good point as well.  It will be very interesting to see if we get more participation from the writers, actually readingthe other entries.

I will once again do my part and read them all, or at least the vast majority.  If I give a favorable review, you can assume I'm commenting on my own script.

Will some be posted today?

Can we review our own scripts? I have a feeling someone did in the August OWC! I suppose it helps maintain the air of secrecy! I made a deliberate effort to write mine differently than my usual style - though how successful that will have been remains to be seen.

There have been over 220 posts on this thread - I would hope for more than that on the actual entry board when it is up and running!

I will make every effort to read and review as many entries as possible - my target is at least half of them!

EDIT: Have just read Don's post announcing around 35 entries - which is not bad going! That means I am committing myself to reading at least 18! After which I will simply be committing myself. :)

You can and should comment on your own script to throw everyone else off.  Most do, as far as I'm aware.

35 entries?  Wow, that's alot again...

Wow! Thirty-five entries! They should be fun to read right before Halloween. :-)
And no, I didn't enter this time round.
  

I'm ready to get reading! :)  Looking forward to this years Halloween OWC.

M-e

Hey look who's back.

She lives!!!!!!

Slab, how's the script coming along, bud?  You've been pretty silent lately, also.