SimplyScripts Screenwriting Discussion Board / The 2020 Writers' Tournament / Introduction to the 2020 Writers' Tournament.
Posted by: Mr. Blonde, June 18th, 2020, 11:12pm
It has been said, of writing, that, "You simply sit down at the typewriter, open your veins and bleed.”
I wholeheartedly endorse this notion. With that in mind, I would like to welcome you all to the 3rd Annual Writers' Tournament.
We all know that 2020 has been... not the best. For all the things that have sucked about it, the social distancing has, apparently, been among the worst. This effect is compounded when it comes to writers who already do an isolating job. I don't want to add to that misery any further, so I am instituting the buddy system.
The buddy system works as such: writers will be randomly paired together and given the following: a list of 10 (ten) genres, objects, locations and characters, each. Each of those lists are unique to the team (with the exception of genre -- each team will get the same list of 10 genres) and each team member is expected to use one genre, object, location and character per week. These items can only be used once. If these elements are used more than once (as a primary), the script will be disqualified for that round.
This is where the Agreement comes in. All that is expected there is, each week, after the topic has been given, both teammates are expected to post simply that they have an agreement between them for which elements each writer is going to use in that round, so there is no confusion, nor risk of disqualification.
Any script that isn't completed for a specific week will result in a .1% overall point deduction for the writer. However, if a script isn't written in a given week, that writer is still required to select their elements. Of course, this could be used as a way to cheat the system, which is why I decided against allowing writers to choose their own partners. Still, that may not eliminate the problem, but it ahould help.
By the time the Tournament is done, every genre, object, location and character will be used once and only once.
Remember: this is all in good fun and meant to inspire creativity and enjoyment. I hope you are inspired and I hope you enjoy yourselves.
Each script is expected to be no more than five pages long (not including the title page).
Your final opportunity to get out of the Writers' Tournament will be July 1st at 11:59PM.
Sometime early on July 2nd, the pairs will be announced and the lists of elements will be provided to each team. It'll take a bit of time to get all that information out, but it should all be there in short order.
On Friday, July 3rd, at 12:00AM, the topic for that week will be provided. Writers can start writing at any time, so long as they agree on the elements they choose. Both partners are expected to post in the Agreement thread, simply, that they have reached an agreement. No details.
Scripts are to be submitted by 11:59PM on July 6th and each of the four following Sundays, at the same time.
Scripts will be judged on a simple 1-2-3-4-5 sliding scale.
Any other questions can be directed towards me.
Posted by: Mr. Blonde, June 26th, 2020, 11:26pm; Reply: 1
The rules are now live. Good luck, everyone, and I hope you have as much fun playing as I had planning. =)
Posted by: Warren, June 26th, 2020, 11:49pm; Reply: 2
Wow, this is next level. Looking forward to it.
Posted by: Mr. Blonde, June 26th, 2020, 11:52pm; Reply: 3
I, honestly, can't wait to see the potential chaos in weeks 4 and 5. I think this is going to be a good bit of fun for everyone involved. =)
Posted by: LC, June 26th, 2020, 11:54pm; Reply: 4
Hmm, mulling it over. Same writer buddy for the entire tournament? And no speed rounds, huh? All a week duration. I was wrong. Was thinking one writer wrote half a script and the other finished it or vice versa.
Thanks, Blondie... for announcing details. Suspense was driving me batty. And for all your hard yakka too. I'm on the fence at the moment.
P.S. Are there even 10 genres?
Posted by: Mr. Blonde, June 27th, 2020, 12:01am; Reply: 5
I counted 19 which could truly be considered their own genre, without genre-mixing.
Posted by: LC, June 27th, 2020, 12:26am; Reply: 6
Ah, okay. I was omitting genres like Musical, Biography, Slice of life, Sport etc.
Looked them up. One list quotes 20.
Posted by: Gum, June 27th, 2020, 12:44am; Reply: 7
Okay, so I have a fairly good idea of what’s transpiring here, let me know if I’m way off.
Each writer, although paired, is still writing a solo project per week with no input from the other team member except to agree what genre, object, location, and character to use in their own script from the laundry list handed out at the onset to each team. Could one member just be neighborly at the onset and state; “you pick five of each and hand me the rest and we’ll go from there”, no?
I get that each topic (released weekly) as we go along would need to incorporate each a different genre, object, location and character that was previously used in the last round, but the concept of ‘TOPIC’ has me somewhat confused. Without using an example of an actual topic you’re planning to use; would you be able to give an example of what a ‘Topic’ would look like?
I ask cause most OWC's are based on using certain genre, object, location, and character sets to create a script, but with all those elements there... what's left to go on - a topic, but that's where I'm confused. Probably a simple answer I'm overthinking.
Posted by: stevie, June 27th, 2020, 12:46am; Reply: 8
Randomly handing out the genre would add more fun but this is pretty cool as is lol
Ah, okay. I was omitting genres like Musical, Biography, Slice of life, Sport etc. Looked them up. One list quotes 20.
What s’matter you, lol. How could you even forget some of the awesome musicals that have graced the SS board over the years? We're talkin' classics such as... Johnny’s: Halloween Baby!
I can only pray I get handed the musical genre (hint, hint)!
Posted by: LC, June 27th, 2020, 1:30am; Reply: 10
^ Yep, silly me. Johnny's was a goodie.
... Blondie has probably turned in, but based on your question, Rick, I assumed the writing was done as a collaboration of pairs?
The agreement relates to elements each writer is going to use in that round, so my assumption is probably wrong.
Clarification on this???
Posted by: FrankM, June 27th, 2020, 1:41am; Reply: 11
Yes, week 5 is going to be a lot of Historical Ficion, set on an Asteroid, with a Kiddie Pool.
Will each script released for review have its requirements listed so people know what to look for?
Posted by: AlsoBen, June 27th, 2020, 2:06am; Reply: 12
I'm so confused by this. I think I'm stupid.
So there's a script competition each week, and you co-write with your partner? But we privately agree and publicly post it...what is the agreement about?
Posted by: LC, June 27th, 2020, 3:39am; Reply: 13
Ben, the agreement is between the two writers regarding: one genre, object, location and character per week. For example, in round 1 of the 2019 Writer's tournament it stipulated:
Genre: Fusion.
Location: Psychiatrist's Office.
Object: Bobblehead Doll.
I'm a bit stupid too in regards to whether we're co-writing, or writing alone. Awaiting clarification on this when Blondie wakes up.
Posted by: AnthonyCawood, June 27th, 2020, 4:13am; Reply: 14
I read Blondie's intro as that the only collaboration is on selecting the elements, but the writers then write their own scripts... could be wrong of course - I often am ;-)
Posted by: Nomad, June 27th, 2020, 4:49am; Reply: 15
Wait... Would you mind clarifying everything after "It has been said..."
If I understand this correctly, we're writing 10 OWCs back to back, where the partners have to agree which 10 genres, objects, locations, and characters are to be used in the no more than 5 page script that each member of a team will independently write each week.
Every team gets the same list of 10 genres, but each individual team gets a unique list of objects, locations, and characters. Both team members must agree on which genre, object, location, and character to use one time, only after they receive the weekly topic.
So every week might go something like this:
Topic: Camping Trip. (Unique to each week)
Genres: Horror, Sci-Fi, RomCom, Drama, Comedy, Action... (We all have the same 10)
Objects: KY Jelly, Party hat, Condom, Oversized Cucumber, Jagermeister, Skis... (Unique to each team)
Location: Mountain Lodge, Arizona, Rams locker room, Dark closet where one cries incessantly due to their affinity for German digestifs...(Unique to each team)
Character: Ski bum, Screenwriter, Online forum member who is very close to posting more posts than the creator of said forum, Jeff... (Unique to each team)
The two team members must agree on which of the 10 criteria from each of the categories that they will use to write their individual weekly 5 page script based on the same topic that everyone gets.
So everyone will write about a "Camping trip", but some may write a comedy set in a mountain lodge with a ski bum who drinks liquor. Whereas another team may write about a camping trip that's a Drama set in a dark closet with a screenwriter who slathers KY Jelly on his fingertips to increase his words per minute in order to write the next great American script.
Am I close?
Posted by: BarryJohn, June 27th, 2020, 5:07am; Reply: 16
BEN, Don't feel alone.. I'm with you on that.
Posted by: BarryJohn, June 27th, 2020, 5:20am; Reply: 17
I read Blondie's intro as that the only collaboration is on selecting the elements, but the writers then write their own scripts... could be wrong of course - I often am ;-)
Yeah, could this be clarified?
And also how many weeks this expected to run for. If we split the genres, then it’s five, if not, it’s ten...if my maths is right.
I have a lot on at the moment and don’t think I could signed up to writing a script with another.
I’m way too anti social :K)
But, may I say thanks for organising this and offering us the choice.
Posted by: Mr. Blonde, June 27th, 2020, 8:12am; Reply: 20
I'll try and simplify it as much as I can. Please keep in mind that I struggle to adequately explain things. Here we go:
The Tournament is five weeks long.
You are paired with another writer.
You (combined with your partner) are assigned 10 genres, objects, locations and characters.
However, you are not allowed to select the same (in my head, I've been calling them variables) variable as your partner, nor are you (nor your partner) allowed to use the same variable more than once.
So, for week 1:
Partner A picks Genre 4, Object 1, Location 9 and Character 2. Partner B picks Genre 8, Object 3, Location 10 and Character 4.
You must discuss this with your partner in advance to ensure that you don't use the same variables your partner did or else that script will be disqualified for that round.
Once you are in agreement with your partner on the topic, you'll both go to the Agreement thread (at some point before the script is due) and say that you're agreed.
Then, once week 1 is over, the elements that remain to be chosen from should be:
You must discuss this with your partner in advance to ensure that you don't use the same variables your partner did or else that script will be disqualified for that round.
Once you are in agreement with your partner on the topic, you'll both go to the Agreement thread (at some point before the script is due) and say that you're agreed.
So we have to like, agree, and work with others, and be unselfish?
Excuse me, I have to go call my therapist.
AJR
Posted by: LC, June 27th, 2020, 8:27am; Reply: 23
Okay, got it. I think. Arguments may ensue over who gets what. Especially if you both want a specific variable. :)
Posted by: Mr. Blonde, June 27th, 2020, 8:32am; Reply: 24
So we have to like, agree, and work with others, and be unselfish?
Oh, no, no, no. Not unselfish. Smart. You have to be smart and plan ahead (as best you can). If you use up all the easy variables early, you'll both be completely fucked in the later rounds.
Okay, got it. I think. Arguments may ensue over who gets what. Especially if you both want a specific variable. :)
Yep. So, pick your battles and choose wisely.
Posted by: LC, June 27th, 2020, 8:43am; Reply: 25
And so regardless of disqualification if dumb enough to use the same variable as your partner, nobody gets knocked out per se, it's just based on highest scores accumulating 1-5 each round.
And it might be wiser picking hard parameters for yourself first rounds? Very interesting.
What time-frame will it be for negotiating variables?
Posted by: Mr. Blonde, June 27th, 2020, 8:47am; Reply: 26
And so regardless of disqualification if dumb enough to use the same variable as your partner, nobody gets knocked out per se, it's just based on highest scores accumulating 1-5 each round.
Right. Nobody gets knocked out.
Posted by: ajr, June 27th, 2020, 8:53am; Reply: 27
So we are also reading 150 pages a week for 5 weeks besides entering into SALT II negotiations with our partner and writing unmarketable nonsense about snack trays on Mars...
That's what I want. Give me snack trays on Mars. I DARE YOU - I WANT SNACK TRAYS ON MARS!
Sorry, my therapist was busy...
AJR
Posted by: Mr. Blonde, June 27th, 2020, 8:57am; Reply: 28
So we are also reading 150 pages a week for 5 weeks besides entering into SALT II negotiations with our partner and writing unmarketable nonsense about snack trays on Mars...
That's what I want. Give me snack trays on Mars. I DARE YOU - I WANT SNACK TRAYS ON MARS!
Not just Martian snack trays; it also has to be a crime drama starring a Girl Scout. Good luck. =)
Posted by: khamanna, June 27th, 2020, 9:07am; Reply: 29
I thought and thought and thought and decided I can’t. Not this time - too much to do and the beginning of July is gonna be crazy. Then I’ll have to move too. Look for a new place and movers and move. And learn and learn and learn data science
Anyway, good luck and happy writing to all!
Sean, to summarise: I’m out(
Posted by: Gum, June 27th, 2020, 9:31am; Reply: 30
I’m still in, until I’m out. I think Jordan has alleviated my confusion re: topic; I knew I was overthinking it.
So basically, each team is handed:
10 – Genre (same as all teams) 10 – Objects (inclusive to each team, different from all other teams) 10 – Locations (inclusive to each team, different from all other teams) 10 – Characters (inclusive to each team, different from all other teams)
40 variables in total.
Each team member will, in coming weeks, use a total of 20 variables to create their script submissions (incorporating 4 original variables each week) until there are no more variables to be used. Got it.
Topic released midnight on July 3rd, and each Friday at midnight after that till we’re done. That’s a lot of scripts, and writing… but, yeah, OK… hence the phrase ‘Tournament Challenge’ – or did you mean ‘Evil Gauntlet’?
Posted by: Reef Dreamer, June 27th, 2020, 9:44am; Reply: 31
Ok, as I understand it
1] we write five scripts, one per week
2] five pages long max
3] in doing so we have to agree with a chosen buddy who gets which genre, location etc out of the 10 provided
4] and of course, we need to read and review
Correct?
Posted by: FrankM, June 27th, 2020, 9:51am; Reply: 32
I thought and thought and thought and decided I can’t. Not this time - too much to do and the beginning of July is gonna be crazy. Then I’ll have to move too. Look for a new place and movers and move. And learn and learn and learn data science
Anyway, good luck and happy writing to all!
Sean, to summarise: I’m out(
Aw, was so looking forward to your cat patiently explaining to Sean that the Hairball is a character and not a mere object.
Take care of yourself, and best of luck with the bootcamp.
Posted by: Stumpzian, June 27th, 2020, 9:56am; Reply: 33
I’m bowing out.
Posted by: ReneC, June 27th, 2020, 10:32am; Reply: 34
Very interesting. Once the criteria are released each week, I can imagine partners fighting over the "perfect" character or object to fit the criteria. It might be the first one to come up with an idea that fits the criteria calls dibs, but that's for each partnership to decide.
Partner isn't the right word, really. Co-consumer, maybe. Limited resources and another mouth to feed. Can't hoard resources, can't kill 'em, so have to work together to divvy up those precious variables.
Posted by: Dreamscale (Guest), June 27th, 2020, 10:35am; Reply: 35
Ha, some funny stuff here.
All sounds good, except for the stipulation about the first script being due 7/5, after just receiving all the info July1. For most of us in the states, this is a long weekend, and I highly doubt my 4th of July weekend will be spent sitting in front of my computer, writing.
Posted by: khamanna, June 27th, 2020, 10:38am; Reply: 36
Ah, okay. I was omitting genres like Musical, Biography, Slice of life, Sport etc.
Looked them up. One list quotes 20.
Always been a frustrating thing for me (what its a genre) - like I know a musical is considered a genre - just can't wrap my head around why as to me it seems to be more akin to style than a genre - e.g., Same with animation - you could have a drama, comedy, thriller, etc told in the style of live-action or animation.
Things like Sport are not genres to me (although I know they are) - they are subjects or settings. And we only select a few of these for genres. e.g., we don't say Wolf of Wall Street is in the Finance genre. We don't say Molly's Game is in the poker genre.
Anyway... just musing over coffee as I wait to start a long list of chores
Posted by: ReneC, June 27th, 2020, 11:05am; Reply: 38
I have a camping trip from July 7th to 12th. I'll be missing a full week of shenanigans, including reading and commenting which, I expect, is also a requirement.
I'm assuming that .1% overall is deducted at the end of the tournie, but it hardly amounts to anything. Say I get 13 out of a maximum 20 with missing one week. .1% of 13 is 0.013 points. I don't see that making a difference. Even if the points are awarded per participant, an average of 13 points x 20 participants is 260, and .1% is 0.26 points. Unless someone else has exactly 260 points it makes no difference.
Just missing a week makes coming out near the top difficult. What's the point of the .1% penalty?
Posted by: khamanna, June 27th, 2020, 11:06am; Reply: 39
Maybe instead of genres there could be themes - Sports, Finance etc.
And I agree with Dave - how’s musical a genre. If it’s a horror musical then what’s the genre there, horror or musical?
Posted by: khamanna, June 27th, 2020, 11:08am; Reply: 40
I�m also thinking everyone will miss at least one and missing those won�t be a problem but the amount of reading is gonna be overwhelming to the point of scary.
That’s in response to Rene’s thoughts
Posted by: Mr. Blonde, June 27th, 2020, 11:12am; Reply: 41
For example, if your average score at the end is 3.8 and you miss one week, your average score, after the deduction, is 3.7.
That's...that's .1 point. Just say point. And yes, that's significant, but then again I have no idea how I ended up 3rd in the last tournament when I only had one script in the top 3. Your point system confounds me, but I have faith you've thought it all out. ;D
Posted by: Mr. Blonde, June 27th, 2020, 12:00pm; Reply: 46
That's...that's .1 point. Just say point. And yes, that's significant, but then again I have no idea how I ended up 3rd in the last tournament when I only had one script in the top 3. Your point system confounds me, but I have faith you've thought it all out. ;D
Well, every year, I have it all planned out, then something comes along and fucks it all up. I'm sure something will happen this year, too. Just waiting to see what it is.
Posted by: Dreamscale (Guest), June 27th, 2020, 12:02pm; Reply: 47
Blondie, what about my comment about the 4th of July weekend?
I still think missing a week, or using a duplicate item, and only being penalized .1 points isn't right. Could be better score-wise just to skip the tough weeks.
Know what I'm saying?
Posted by: Mr. Blonde, June 27th, 2020, 12:14pm; Reply: 48
Quoted from Dreamscale
Blondie, what about my comment about the 4th of July weekend?
I still think missing a week, or using a duplicate item, and only being penalized .1 points isn't right. Could be better score-wise just to skip the tough weeks.
Know what I'm saying?
I know what you're saying. I had planned to do something to help people out with reviewing, but it would put extra effort on Don, so I wouldn't want to do that without running that idea by him.
As for postponing a week for writing, that's not in the plan, but if people decide it's what they want (keeping in mind the 4th of July is only an American thing), I can push it back for another week. Just figured that, by then, it'd be three weeks of announcement before the Tournament actually starts.
Posted by: Dreamscale (Guest), June 27th, 2020, 1:04pm; Reply: 49
So we have less than 3 days to find out who we're partnered with, get the parameters, and turn in the script?
And that's over July 4th Weekend?
I don't see how that could work for anyone with even remote long weekend plans.
Posted by: ReneC, June 27th, 2020, 1:54pm; Reply: 50
Quoted from Dreamscale
So we have less than 3 days to find out who we're partnered with, get the parameters, and turn in the script?
And that's over July 4th Weekend?
I don't see how that could work for anyone with even remote long weekend plans.
You act like you don't get shlammied on Jaeger and bang the script out in the last four hours anyway...
Posted by: ReneC, June 27th, 2020, 1:56pm; Reply: 51
Fair point though, Independence Day is a big deal in the US. Maybe extend the deadline for the first week by one day to let them have Sunday night and Monday to write. For that matter, make all the deadlines Monday like last year, that worked great for me. ;D
Posted by: FrankM, June 27th, 2020, 2:09pm; Reply: 52
Fair point though, Independence Day is a big deal in the US. Maybe extend the deadline for the first week by one day to let them have Sunday night and Monday to write. For that matter, make all the deadlines Monday like last year, that worked great for me. ;D
This sounds like a decent plan. That way, Colonel Mustard has an extra day in the Study with the Candlestick.
Posted by: Dreamscale (Guest), June 27th, 2020, 2:15pm; Reply: 53
Agreed! Make Monday the due date.
I can definitely bang one out quickly, but doubtful on a Saturday.
Posted by: Zack, June 27th, 2020, 2:21pm; Reply: 54
This sounds awesome, but I'm out. I have to focus up on my current project. Good luck, everyone. :)
Posted by: mmmarnie, June 27th, 2020, 2:21pm; Reply: 55
I love it. Nice work Blondie. But I do have one suggestion...its about reading and voting. What if each week teams are also assigned 3 teams to read and review? That way each script gets the same amount of reads. And switch it up every week so people get a chance to read everyone's work. Would help all scripts get even amount of reads and help us not feel like we have to read 30 scripts in a few days. It could be added into the weekly agreement maybe. For week 1, team 5 agrees to read scripts from team 6,7 and 8. Week 2 they read team 7,8,9.... So were only reading 6 each week and each story gets 6 reviews. 15 teams...each week read 3 team's work...
Just a thought.
Posted by: AnthonyCawood, June 27th, 2020, 2:31pm; Reply: 56
C'mon Jeff, you're bound to have a different excuse by then anyway ;-)
Posted by: eldave1, June 27th, 2020, 2:55pm; Reply: 57
Quoted from Dreamscale
Agreed! Make Monday the due date.
I can definitely bang one out quickly, but doubtful on a Saturday.
You know he's talking about a script - right?
Posted by: JEStaats, June 27th, 2020, 3:38pm; Reply: 58
Wow! Just catching up here. I must be a rocket scientist because Blondie's first post made sense to me. But then again, I can make sense of the Department of Labor and IRS Codes of Federal Regulations.
I'm chompin' at the bit! Bring it on, Blondie!
Zack and Kham, I'm sorely disappointed that you're backing out.
Posted by: ajr, June 27th, 2020, 4:09pm; Reply: 59
Whoever is partners with me... I know I teased Jeff, but that may have been projecting...
I have been known to be a miserable pr#$k on occasion...
HAPPY SATURDAY EVERYONE!
Signed America's favorite misanthrope,
AJR
Posted by: Dreamscale (Guest), June 27th, 2020, 4:10pm; Reply: 60
I don’t care who I get paired with. I’m not biased. I hate all of you equally ;D
It's that love/hate, pain/pleasure thing you have going on, Brother! ;D ;D ;D
Posted by: stevie, June 27th, 2020, 4:29pm; Reply: 64
Quoted from Dreamscale
It's that love/hate, pain/pleasure thing you have going on, Brother! ;D ;D ;D
You’d know about that bro! Mister Jeff ‘Gloryhole’ Bush...
Posted by: stevie, June 27th, 2020, 4:58pm; Reply: 65
All jokes aside - well, except for the ongoing Jeff ones - unless I’ve misread Blondie’s stipulations, and you’re in a cool agreement with your partner, then theoretically you could write all five scripts at the same time if you chose? Like if you had the inspiration just smash them out during the reading period. Does that make sense lol?
Posted by: ajr, June 27th, 2020, 5:00pm; Reply: 66
All jokes aside - well, except for the ongoing Jeff ones - unless I’ve misread Blondie’s stipulations, and you’re in a cool agreement with your partner, then theoretically you could write all five scripts at the same time if you chose? Like if you had the inspiration just smash them out during the reading period. Does that make sense lol?
You could, but you'd likely mess up the themes for each round...
Posted by: ReneC, June 27th, 2020, 5:29pm; Reply: 73
All jokes aside - well, except for the ongoing Jeff ones - unless I’ve misread Blondie’s stipulations, and you’re in a cool agreement with your partner, then theoretically you could write all five scripts at the same time if you chose? Like if you had the inspiration just smash them out during the reading period. Does that make sense lol?
We still have to write on the topic of the week, so writing ahead of time won't work.
Posted by: stevie, June 27th, 2020, 5:29pm; Reply: 74
Ah yeah cool Blondie. It just came to me while I was having brekkie lol.
Cheers Rene. I wasn’t sure if the themes, objects etc were doled our piecemeal each week or the list was available straight up
Posted by: ajr, June 27th, 2020, 5:33pm; Reply: 75
Ah yeah cool Blondie. It just came to me while I was having brekkie lol.
Cheers Rene. I wasn’t sure if the themes, objects etc were doled our piecemeal each week or the list was available straight up
You will all receive your lists as soon as the teams are announced.
Posted by: Mr. Blonde, June 27th, 2020, 6:15pm; Reply: 78
Deep down, I'll be honest: I'm kind if curious if anyone actually ending up finding out what all six clues were in reference to. They were really fun to pick out.
Posted by: FrankM, June 27th, 2020, 6:21pm; Reply: 79
Sorry if I missed an answer to this:
Will each posted script have its variables listed so that people know what to look for?
That might at least get some sympathy for the constraints one was writing under. "I suppose that explains the war story with talking vegetables."
Posted by: mmmarnie, June 27th, 2020, 6:24pm; Reply: 80
Deep down, I'll be honest: I'm kind if curious if anyone actually ending up finding out what all six clues were in reference to. They were really fun to pick out.
I tried but it went over my head. :P
Posted by: Gum, June 27th, 2020, 6:39pm; Reply: 81
I’m still weighing the pros n’ cons of this re: sanity. I still remember the old adage; “horizontal for attention, vertical for results” That may be the only option in the last round/final days of this madness.
I have a Shtick 3 blade razor, I might have to upgrade to a 1.
Posted by: Mr. Blonde, June 27th, 2020, 6:41pm; Reply: 82
Posted by: DarrenJamesSeeley, June 27th, 2020, 10:04pm; Reply: 91
It does not matter who I am paired with. One of us will be doomed. ;D
Posted by: MarkRenshaw, June 28th, 2020, 5:53am; Reply: 92
What if someone accidentally uses an object or genre they are not supposed to? This is relying on email communication, which is poor at best, to co-ordinate 5 weeks of writing effort. It could get messy!
Currently, I'm out of work, so I'm able to commit but if I suddenly get a job I may have to drop out. I'm not backing out, just was wondering if this is acceptable upfront before we start.
Posted by: ReneC, June 28th, 2020, 8:59am; Reply: 93
Not that messy, Mark. The only lengthy discussion I foresee between the pairings is if two people want the same variable.
If the topic of the week is a stranded at sea story and one of the objects is a fishing spear, both people might want it. Maybe the first to call dibs gets it, or alternate first choice, like a schoolyard line up for a sport, and alternate who picks first each round.
But first you have to come up with a story idea that fits the topic, hopefully being inspired by one or more of the variables available to you. It might not work well to decide right as soon as the weekly topic is announced. And, time zones. Each pairing will have to agree what works for them for timing of that discussion.
The real arguments will begin when it's week 5 and the topic is a pandemic and all that's left for genre is musical and drama and for objects a rocket launcher and a butterfly net.
Posted by: Mr. Blonde, June 28th, 2020, 9:12am; Reply: 94
What if someone accidentally uses an object or genre they are not supposed to? This is relying on email communication, which is poor at best, to co-ordinate 5 weeks of writing effort. It could get messy!
Currently, I'm out of work, so I'm able to commit but if I suddenly get a job I may have to drop out. I'm not backing out, just was wondering if this is acceptable upfront before we start.
You can use any object, character or location you want (so long as the variables that you've chosen for that week remain the primary. For example, if the location is a research lab and you have a brief flashback to a lake, that's acceptable, so long as the major factor in the script is a research lab. Genres should, mainly, be considered the genre selected. Try to avoid fusion, if only for the sake of your score. Some people aren't so forgiving about that.
Dropping out, once locked in, isn't an option, however, you can choose not to write a script. But, you'd still have to claim your variables, so your writing partner knows what's available to them and what isn't.
The real arguments will begin when it's week 5 and the topic is a pandemic and all that's left for genre is musical and drama and for objects a rocket launcher and a butterfly net.
He gets it...
Posted by: Reef Dreamer, June 28th, 2020, 10:19am; Reply: 95
Not that messy, Mark. The only lengthy discussion I foresee between the pairings is if two people want the same variable.
If the topic of the week is a stranded at sea story and one of the objects is a fishing spear, both people might want it. Maybe the first to call dibs gets it, or alternate first choice, like a schoolyard line up for a sport, and alternate who picks first each round.
But first you have to come up with a story idea that fits the topic, hopefully being inspired by one or more of the variables available to you. It might not work well to decide right as soon as the weekly topic is announced. And, time zones. Each pairing will have to agree what works for them for timing of that discussion.
The real arguments will begin when it's week 5 and the topic is a pandemic and all that's left for genre is musical and drama and for objects a rocket launcher and a butterfly net.
Pandemic musical? Signe me up
Posted by: PKCardinal, June 28th, 2020, 11:40am; Reply: 97
I'm assuming we won't be voting on the script written by our teammate. As we'll know which script is theirs. Correct?
Posted by: FrankM, June 28th, 2020, 2:36pm; Reply: 98
I'm assuming we won't be voting on the script written by our teammate. As we'll know which script is theirs. Correct?
I wonder if partners are supposed to remain confidential. Otherwise I can see post-reveal comments like “You fight for the ball of yarn and THIS is what you write with it? I had such a better idea!”
Posted by: LC, June 28th, 2020, 6:13pm; Reply: 99
I was so looking forward to this! And adding to the female contingent too, >:( but...
Quoted from Blondie
Dropping out, once locked in, isn't an option, however, you can choose not to write a script. But, you'd still have to claim your variables, so your writing partner knows what's available to them and what isn't
Wouldn't be fair on my part methinks to claim variables from a partner knowing it's fifty-fifty on my part getting a script done by deadline. I think that would really piss off a partner vying for the good stuff.
Sadly commitments at home are consuming my time too regularly. ::)
Not to whinge but, the dipping in and out option of the last tourny was an attractive drawcard, even though I knew I could never ace the entire thing.
Oh well, next time maybe.
Good luck all! I'll certainly be around to read as many as possible, and Mod.
Posted by: Dreamscale (Guest), June 28th, 2020, 8:36pm; Reply: 100
C'mon, Libby! Stay in.
You'll only lose .1 points per entry if you miss a round.
The more the merrier!!!
Posted by: LC, June 28th, 2020, 9:15pm; Reply: 101
I appreciate the support, Jeff. :D Will see how things pan out on the homefront next few days but I don't like my chances.
Posted by: mmmarnie, June 28th, 2020, 10:10pm; Reply: 102
Ugh
Posted by: Nomad, June 28th, 2020, 11:57pm; Reply: 103
Whoever I'm partnered with is going to be happy. I don't care what criteria I get.
My partner can take what they want and I'll write that musical horror story about the laxative tester in the pumpkin spice mines of Zimbabwe.
Posted by: FrankM, June 29th, 2020, 12:05am; Reply: 104
That musical horror story was MY idea, you thief! ;)
Well it's such a common story that there were bound to be a few similar scripts in the tournament.
I tell you what... you take Zimbabwe, and I'll take Zambia.
There.
Totally different stories now.
Posted by: BarryJohn, June 29th, 2020, 1:14am; Reply: 106
In partnership - they agree that each gets first pick of the list per week. No fighting there.
Posted by: LC, June 29th, 2020, 2:45am; Reply: 107
Except BarryJohn, it's only the topic that changes each week.
The list of 10 (ten) genres, objects, locations and characters is given all at once, I think. I just noticed too - characters are included?
Time for more clarification from Blondie...
Posted by: Geezis, June 29th, 2020, 4:29am; Reply: 108
I get the premise of the variables. I get the timescale. I get the format. I get all the permutations required of the challenge. I just feel sorry for whoever is partnered with me, that’s the real challenge :-) ;-)
Posted by: Yuvraj, June 29th, 2020, 4:33am; Reply: 109
I know it won't matter much. But I'm out.
Good luck to everyone participating.
Posted by: Gum, June 29th, 2020, 7:40am; Reply: 110
Yes, I too have fallen victim to circumstance; plans change unfortunately. I’m now headed to the lake on Thursday and will most likely be in an altered state of consciousness till Sunday. Trying to communicate effectively with a paired writer to dole out variables will be iffy at best, let alone write a script; not a good start to set the precedence of things to come.
Guess I could have just said “no dice”, but an explanation is always better. Good luck to those participating.
Posted by: Pleb, June 29th, 2020, 8:22am; Reply: 111
Well if you guys are out I’m out too then.
Good luck to those still game for the challenge!
Posted by: Dreamscale (Guest), June 29th, 2020, 10:33am; Reply: 112
WTF?
Why is everyone out all of a sudden?
Posted by: khamanna, June 29th, 2020, 11:06am; Reply: 113
What's the new list I wonder. How many are in? Blondie, you keep count?
Posted by: khamanna, June 29th, 2020, 11:07am; Reply: 114
I'm still in cus I don't think I'm ever going back to work. And I've met some SS and Movie Poet members in person who can vouch that I'm female. :P
Lol I was meaning to say that men are women since some may not want to identify. But it's deffinitely not the way I wrote it. I'm pretty sure you're a girl, too btw)
Posted by: FrankM, June 29th, 2020, 3:17pm; Reply: 117
Have this nagging feeling my object list is going to be something like red-orange crayon, burnt-orange crayon, bittersweet crayon, orange-red crayon, mango-tango crayon, vivid tangerine crayon, orange crayon, burnt-sienna crayon, neon-carrot crayon, and sunset orange crayon.
Posted by: Dreamscale (Guest), June 29th, 2020, 3:20pm; Reply: 118
Have this nagging feeling my object list is going to be something like red-orange crayon, burnt-orange crayon, bittersweet crayon, orange-red crayon, mango-tango crayon, vivid tangerine crayon, orange crayon, burnt-sienna crayon, neon-carrot crayon, and sunset orange crayon.
Frank, you have a thing for crayons? Or is it a thing for orange/red colors?
Or maybe, both?
Posted by: FrankM, June 29th, 2020, 3:38pm; Reply: 119
Quoted from Dreamscale
Frank, you have a thing for crayons? Or is it a thing for orange/red colors?
Or maybe, both?
If I did, then I wouldn't mind that object list.
But I don't, so I would.
Posted by: Dreamscale (Guest), June 29th, 2020, 3:44pm; Reply: 120
Posted by: FrankM, June 29th, 2020, 3:54pm; Reply: 121
Quoted from Dreamscale
LOL! Love the color combos you came up with.
Last Writers Tournament, I had a character come right out and ask in dialog “...why on Earth is there a {required object} in this kit?” The thing did actually belong there, by the way.
Posted by: Nomad, June 29th, 2020, 4:02pm; Reply: 122
Don't forget firetruck red.
Posted by: ajr, June 29th, 2020, 4:13pm; Reply: 123
Mango-Tango Crayon is my favorite Ted Nugent song...
AJR
Posted by: Mr. Blonde, June 29th, 2020, 4:41pm; Reply: 124
I wonder if partners are supposed to remain confidential. Otherwise I can see post-reveal comments like “You fight for the ball of yarn and THIS is what you write with it? I had such a better idea!”
Same rules apply as in the OWC, once reviews are in for the week, people can unmask themselves for that round.
Wouldn't be fair on my part methinks to claim variables from a partner knowing it's fifty-fifty on my part getting a script done by deadline. I think that would really piss off a partner vying for the good stuff.
Not to whinge but, the dipping in and out option of the last tourny was an attractive drawcard, even though I knew I could never ace the entire thing.
Admittedly, you don't know which variables will be good until the topic comes up. How can you waste good variables when you don't know which ones you'd even want? Still, a chance to change your mind... =)
The list of 10 (ten) genres, objects, locations and characters is given all at once, I think. I just noticed too - characters are included?
As with the other variables, you only have to include one per script. You, absolutely, are recommended to write scripts with more characters, but only one has to be a character from the variable list.
What's the new list I wonder. How many are in? Blondie, you keep count?
I am. Final list will be revealed on Wednesday, along with the pairings.
Posted by: khamanna, June 29th, 2020, 5:02pm; Reply: 125
What if there's an argument over characters or else. What will you do, Sean? I just thought about how it could go wrong. People may get smart and start "securing" stuff they like from the very beginning. Will you write a set of rules for paired ppl to follow?
Posted by: AnthonyCawood, June 29th, 2020, 5:11pm; Reply: 126
I hate this waiting bit ;-)
Posted by: JEStaats, June 29th, 2020, 5:18pm; Reply: 127
What if there's an argument over characters or else. What will you do, Sean? I just thought about how it could go wrong. People may get smart and start "securing" stuff they like from the very beginning. Will you write a set of rules for paired ppl to follow?
Very simple. If you both don't post that you agree (or if someone messages me that the other is being an asshole and that is determined to be irreconcilable), more extremes measures will be taken.
Very simple. If you both don't post that you agree (or if someone messages me that the other is being an asshole and that is determined to be irreconcilable), more extremes measures will be taken.
In medieval times a person could tell on his neighbor she's a witch and she would be burnt alive. I'm glad you bringing those times back!
Posted by: Mr. Blonde, June 29th, 2020, 6:43pm; Reply: 135
Very simple. If you both don't post that you agree (or if someone messages me that the other is being an asshole and that is determined to be irreconcilable), more extremes measures will be taken.
“My partner and I have agreed to pistols at dawn.”
Posted by: Mr. Blonde, June 29th, 2020, 7:12pm; Reply: 137
I wonder what the score of those who miss all 5 would be. -.5 I guess.
That'd be a good one. No, they get no score. They'd be out.
Posted by: Cameron (Guest), June 30th, 2020, 3:10pm; Reply: 159
Hey Mr Blonde,
Really sorry mate but I've just had a load of work smash me very hard in the noggin so I'm sadly gonna have to duck out. Will try to get some reads in, totes sorry for leaving the pull out so late.
Best of luck to all remaining peeples!!
Cam xx
Posted by: FrankM, June 30th, 2020, 3:30pm; Reply: 160
My plan is to write the perfect script in week one, then coast to victory with a final score of 4.6.
Of course, now that I've said it out loud, everyone's gonna do it. Damn it. What was I thinking?!
If that's how you'd want to actually win...
Posted by: spesh2k, June 30th, 2020, 5:23pm; Reply: 163
I, unfortunately, will have to bow out of this one -- with businesses opening back up, will be occupied with finding work while also meeting other writing obligations. But good luck to all! I will be paying close attention and will try to read as many entries as I can...
-- Michael
Posted by: Arundel, June 30th, 2020, 5:26pm; Reply: 164
I'm still in.
Posted by: LC, June 30th, 2020, 5:59pm; Reply: 165
I thought of doing another round of out and in just for the fun of it and then stopped myself))
There's still time to jump out and jump back in... Lol.
Posted by: Gum, June 30th, 2020, 9:05pm; Reply: 175
Both contending Canadians appear to be out, eh? Oh well, now that the idea is wide open I might as well spill my horrible wish list:
Object - Broken Hockey Stick(s) Location – Somewhere cold, (vis-à-vis - outdoor ice-rink, two o’ clock in the morning, full moon). Characters – Several Bored Inebriated Youths Genre – Sports, or Horror
End Result:
‘Full Contact Killer Ringette’ is born. Oh, the humanity!
Hmm? Me…? Nope, never played - at least, not since… the incident, lol.
I’ll def’ be reading from the sidelines; just no time to write unfortunately. Curious to see what is abound.
Posted by: khamanna, July 1st, 2020, 9:41am; Reply: 176
Yeah, but where's the fun in being consistent and fair? =)
Oh c'mon...let's get this thing rolling already!! Seriously...release the Kraken!!
Posted by: Mr. Blonde, July 1st, 2020, 1:29pm; Reply: 182
Quoted from Dreamscale
Oh c'mon...let's get this thing rolling already!! Seriously...release the Kraken!!
What can I do to speed up the process? Teams and variables revealed tomorrow, allowing time to confer with your teammate for 24 hours then the topic is revealed and you're on your way.
Posted by: Mr. Blonde, July 1st, 2020, 1:49pm; Reply: 183
What can I do to speed up the process? Teams and variables revealed tomorrow, allowing time to confer with your teammate for 24 hours then the topic is revealed and you're on your way.
Well, for starters, the reveal is supposed to be today. Pushing back to tomorrow falls into the long weekend, as many peeps head out tomorrow afternoon, and have Friday off.
My weekend starts tomorrow, so getting something coordinated with my partner and writing the script by Monday is going to be very, very difficult.
Posted by: khamanna, July 1st, 2020, 2:06pm; Reply: 186
No, I was just messing with you guys. It locks tonight at 11:59 and the teams and lists will be announced tomorrow.
Well I won't be out just for the sake of odd number count.
Posted by: Mr. Blonde, July 1st, 2020, 2:11pm; Reply: 187
Quoted from Dreamscale
Well, for starters, the reveal is supposed to be today. Pushing back to tomorrow falls into the long weekend, as many peeps head out tomorrow afternoon, and have Friday off.
My weekend starts tomorrow, so getting something coordinated with my partner and writing the script by Monday is going to be very, very difficult.
Well, I did give you four days to write this first script. Is that still not long enough? We'll figure something out, but how about a compromise?
You get the list of variables tomorrow, but I'll announce the teams today. Is this fair and equitable?
Posted by: khamanna, July 1st, 2020, 2:13pm; Reply: 188
Wait, I seemingly missed the topic part before. So it‘S 10 of everything - genre, character and object AND a topic?
Not that I‘m complaining, just want to know
It also sounds like we need to select our set of obj/char/genre before the topic is announced. Is that right?
Yes, to the first paragraph. No, to the third paragraph.
Posted by: Mr. Blonde, July 1st, 2020, 4:46pm; Reply: 193
I am locking the entrants right now and determining their order. However, we have an odd number of entries. This is an element I will discuss with the person who comes up alone. I will create a new thread with the entrants when they've been determined.
Posted by: Nomad, July 1st, 2020, 5:11pm; Reply: 194
Technically Mr. Blonde has a little less than 13 hours to get something out "Today" since in American Samoa it's a little after 11 AM right now, thus making it one of the last places to be "today" before it becomes tomorrow.
Posted by: Mr. Blonde, July 1st, 2020, 5:14pm; Reply: 195
Technically Mr. Blonde has a little less than 13 hours to get something out "Today" since in American Samoa it's a little after 11 AM right now, thus making it one of the last places to be "today" before it becomes tomorrow.
A-ha. See? Plenty of time. But, this should be available soon, if all goes well.
Posted by: khamanna, July 1st, 2020, 5:43pm; Reply: 196
Technically Mr. Blonde has a little less than 13 hours to get something out "Today" since in American Samoa it's a little after 11 AM right now, thus making it one of the last places to be "today" before it becomes tomorrow.
Lol getting on Sean’s good side aren’t we
Posted by: Mr. Blonde, July 1st, 2020, 5:48pm; Reply: 197
I distinctly remember you saying it’s gonna be announced Wednesday which is today in every part of the world!
Actually it's Thursday, nearly 9am here, so I'm claiming Aussie rules for you all. :P ...Even though technically yep, I think Blondie has till midnight back in time.
Posted by: khamanna, July 1st, 2020, 5:55pm; Reply: 199
Actually it's Thursday, nearly 9am here, so I'm claiming Aussie rules for you all. :P ...Even though technically yep, I think Blondie has till midnight back in time.
Ugh if you're paired with an American it's not gonna be fun for the two of you to wait for each other to wake up. Maybe Sean will account for that.
Posted by: Mr. Blonde, July 1st, 2020, 5:59pm; Reply: 200
I am locking the entrants right now and determining their order. However, we have an odd number of entries. This is an element I will discuss with the person who comes up alone. I will create a new thread with the entrants when they've been determined.
I have a split personality. If it helps I will pair with myself? Even though Mark2 is a right git.
Regardless, it is after midnight here in the UK so I'll have to catch up with whatever the agreement bit is tomorrow... or later today as it is Thursday already.
Posted by: Mr. Blonde, July 1st, 2020, 6:04pm; Reply: 203
I have a split personality. If it helps I will pair with myself? Even though Mark2 is a right git.
Regardless, it is after midnight here in the UK so I'll have to catch up with whatever the agreement bit is tomorrow... or later today as it is Thursday already.
Unfortunately, I can't abide that, unless you want to write 10 scripts and have Mark2 read and review all the scripts, as well...
Posted by: Nomad, July 1st, 2020, 6:10pm; Reply: 204
Better than getting on my bad side, though, isn't it?... =)
Well said, Sean! It's rare to see such brilliance, poise, and swagger within such a ruggedly handsome man.
By the way, I got your private message. I'm not sure what you mean by "Go ahead and pick all the objects, locations, and characters you want from the attached list." I thought the list hasn't come out yet?
By the way, I got your private message. I'm not sure what you mean by "Go ahead and pick all the objects, locations, and characters you want from the attached list." I thought the list hasn't come out yet?
Lol Libby - knowing you I'm thinking you say all this not to give away the fact you'll be alone. I thought it would be Frank since it's his bday today. But having an Aussie alone makes even more sense.
Am I going to be alone? :'( Wazza, Stevo???
Ah, okay. See, too early in the morning here and I have a toothache. Getting it now. ;) Or maybe not. We shall see.
Posted by: khamanna, July 1st, 2020, 6:27pm; Reply: 210
Can we write a title too? Or is that a no-no? It's okay. Ignore that. You've said what's what.
Yes, your script has a title. The only thing that's changing is the logline format.
Posted by: stevie, July 4th, 2020, 4:29pm; Reply: 221
Sorry Blondie I‘m a bit vague this Sunday morn after about 4 hrs after work lol
So we don’t do a normal log, we just state the variables we had to use? By the way are some of the variables the same for each team? Marnie mentioned one in the other thread that was, well, familiar lol.
Lib, its only 6 degrees here this morn! I’ve got up quickly and put the washing in then back to bed. Everyone else asleep except the pets lol
Posted by: ajr, July 4th, 2020, 4:56pm; Reply: 222
And we are voting on our teammate's script? I already know which one is his based on the criteria.
AJR
Posted by: Mr. Blonde, July 4th, 2020, 5:47pm; Reply: 223
Sorry Blondie I‘m a bit vague this Sunday morn after about 4 hrs after work lol
So we don’t do a normal log, we just state the variables we had to use? By the way are some of the variables the same for each team? Marnie mentioned one in the other thread that was, well, familiar lol.
Lib, its only 6 degrees here this morn! I’ve got up quickly and put the washing in then back to bed. Everyone else asleep except the pets lol
There are some that are similar, but none the same (unless I fucked up when I put the lists together. Coming up with 90 of each topic is harder than it sounds.
Posted by: Mr. Blonde, July 4th, 2020, 5:48pm; Reply: 224
Lib, its only 6 degrees here this morn! I’ve got up quickly and put the washing in then back to bed. Everyone else asleep except the pets lol
Haha! Frigging freezing here too but at 9 a.m. ish it says 11°. Really? Feels like 4°. But sunny and clear in Sydney town. Come on Summer!! Apologies for the Aussie weather update folks.
Quoted from Blondie
Yes, your script has a title. The only thing that's changing is the logline format.
Blondie, thanks! Got a title I like. Now I gotta write the script which has taken a complete 180 from yesterday cause it was utter crap. Bleeding at the keyboard indeed. I'm haemorrhaging. Figuratively speaking. ;D Thank God for the extra time. I secretly think we should act like it's 4 July every week.
Posted by: stevie, July 4th, 2020, 6:01pm; Reply: 227
Cheers Blondie But you didn’t answer the log query lol
Posted by: Mr. Blonde, July 4th, 2020, 6:12pm; Reply: 228
What about it? Variables and theme. That's all the logline should be. I thought I went over this one, but I probably didn't.
Posted by: stevie, July 4th, 2020, 6:15pm; Reply: 229
Yeah the log. So we just mention the variables and that’s it? No brief sentence of the script detail?
Posted by: Mr. Blonde, July 4th, 2020, 6:22pm; Reply: 230
I assure you, Stevie, there's a long list in front of you. Besides, I think that might hurt Jeff's feelings.Lol.
As long there’s no queue up to get me. I guess they’re all lined up for Jeff ;D
Posted by: mmmarnie, July 4th, 2020, 7:45pm; Reply: 234
These loglines are gonna be pretty funny with that random object thrown in there. Lol
Posted by: Dreamscale (Guest), July 4th, 2020, 7:55pm; Reply: 235
OK, Yeah, I know I'm BAKED, I know I've been drinking the last 3 hours, and I'm tired and dumb, but it looks like a ton of my posts were deleted, or else I just can't view the last 3 hours of posts.
Is it just me?
Posted by: LC, July 4th, 2020, 8:00pm; Reply: 236
I think it might just be you...
Posted by: FrankM, July 4th, 2020, 8:02pm; Reply: 237
Quoted from Dreamscale
OK, Yeah, I know I'm BAKED, I know I've been drinking the last 3 hours, and I'm tired and dumb, but it looks like a ton of my posts were deleted, or else I just can't view the last 3 hours of posts.
Is it just me?
It's either the Mandela Effect or you were accidentally typing on the arm of your couch.
Posted by: khamanna, July 4th, 2020, 8:02pm; Reply: 238
Lol
Posted by: Dreamscale (Guest), July 4th, 2020, 8:27pm; Reply: 239
