This is the first of three un-interrelated writing challenges...  UP first

Theme: "Calls"

Genre: Open - Drama, Dramedy, Comedy, Sci fi, Rom Com, Crime, Thriller, etc

Challenge: A conversation between two (or more) people - There can be multiple conversations, but each conversation has to be between two people at a time across an electronic device, cell/mobile, landline, walkie-talkie, ham radio, CB radio, intercom, Morse code, text, etc.

Update - This can be written as a radio play
Update #2 - Think 'audio drama'

Write a one to four (1 - 4) page script, properly formatted script anonymously. Participation requires all participants to read and comment in the discussion board on all (up to ten) scripts.



Additional info & timeline:



Mon 4/12/21 8:00pm edt - Announce theme and genre

Fri 4/16/21 - Scripts due midnight edt to SimplyScripts.com/OWC

Sat 4/17/21 - Noon scripts posted

Wed 4/21/21 - Start guessing no spoilers

Fri 4/23/21 - Writer's Choice Due.

Sun 4/25/21 - Writer's Choice announced



This isn't a contest - it's a challenge. There are no official prizes.

You/your team can revise the script as many times as you wish up until the deadline.

Do not put your real name(s) on your script; this is an anonymous challenge. However, please use your real name(s) when submitting your script.

After the challenge closes you can either have your script removed or resubmit your script with your name on it.

Participants must read and comment/review in the discussion board at least 10 other scripts submitted or your work will be removed (no harm, no foul. I understand that live gets in the way.

Please put ©2021 on your title page.

Any questions about the challenge, post them.

There will be a review page emailed to you for you to score the scripts you read. Please only give scores to scripts that you have read. Please do not rate scripts in your review.

Nice one, Don.

Plenty of scope.
Good that you're being a hard-arse about involvement too.

This sounds like my kind of party!  ;D ;D ;D

Quoted from Don Participants must read and comment/review in the discussion board at least 10 other scripts submitted or your work will be removed (no harm, no foul. I understand that live gets in the way.

This is a great approach.  8)

So simple...made so difficult. Sigh.

So every conversation in the script must be between 2 people across an electric device or it just needs to be the bulk of the script?

Quoted from Warren So every conversation in the script must be between 2 people across an electric device or it just needs to be the bulk of the script?

Yes, every conversation.  Think radio play.  Also, there can be multiple conversations. One can hang up and call someone else.  Also, someone can be yelling in the background.  Explore the space.

- Don

So I'll be the stupid one and be the first to ask the obvious question.  All conversation or can there be any action blocks.  Feels like there might need to be some minimal action at least to potentially setup/end the story.

The Guilty

https://www.imdb.com/title/tt6742252/

Now, that's how it's done.

Quoted from Gary in Houston So I'll be the stupid one and be the first to ask the obvious question.  All conversation or can there be any action blocks.  Feels like there might need to be some minimal action at least to potentially setup/end the story.

Yes, you’ll need action blocks, to describe what is heard in the background...

Don

Quoted from Don Yes, every conversation.  Think radio play. - Don

Cheers, this is going to be a tough one.

Quoted from LC The Guilty https://www.imdb.com/title/tt6742252/ Now, that's how it's done.

Excellent film!

Last one from me... Is this one entry per writer? I know that for the last few challenges there could be multiple entries.

Quoted from Don Yes, you’ll need action blocks, mostly to describe what is heard in the background... Don

The "heard in the background" confused me a bit.  I understand that this is two people having a conversation and all of that conversation takes place via a device such as a telephone.

My initial thought was: Okay, using a phone call as an example,  I can write a scene where my protag is in his house talking to someone on the phone. I can write what he looks like, what the home looks like, what he is doing, etc. as long as all of the dialogue takes place over the phone. Long-winded way of saying it's just like any other script except for the dialogue takes place over the phone.

After your clarification (heard in the background) - it made me think that what you are really going after is no physical scenes or visuals per se - i.e, everything in the script is heard. You don't even see the characters.

Which is it - the former or the latter (or neither?)

Gracias.

Good question, Dave.

As in The Guilty, most of the action takes place in one room in the Cop station, and the call that comes in is just audio with sound effects in the background.

It's to be filmed, right Don? So, not a radio Play as such?
Like the 911 call shows - we only see the operator and hear everything on the other end of the call - we don't cut between both scenes?

would skype/facetime/zoom count in the "electronic" category?

Quoted from eldave1 The "heard in the background" confused me a bit.  I understand that this is two people having a conversation and all of that conversation takes place via a device such as a telephone. My initial thought was: Okay, using a phone call as an example,  I can write a scene where my protag is in his house talking to someone on the phone. I can write what he looks like, what the home looks like, what he is doing, etc. as long as all of the dialogue takes place over the phone. Long-winded way of saying it's just like any other script except for the dialogue takes place over the phone. After your clarification (heard in the background) - it made me think that what you are really going after is no physical scenes or visuals per se - i.e, everything in the script is heard. You don't even see the characters. Which is it - the former or the latter (or neither?) Gracias.

The latter.  Everything is heard.  

Don

Quoted from Don The latter.  Everything is heard.   Don

Thanks

Quoted from LC Good question, Dave. As in The Guilty, most of the action takes place in one room in the Cop station, and the call that comes in is just audio with sound effects in the background. It's to be filmed, right Don? So, not a radio Play as such? Like the 911 call shows - we only see the operator and hear everything on the other end of the call - we don't cut between both scenes?

Everything is heard. Image the audience tapping into the conversations. Everything you know is only from what you hear.

- Don

Quoted from Gary in Houston would skype/facetime/zoom count in the "electronic" category?

Damn you, Gary. I didn't think of that.



I'm going to say, "No" unless the camera is broken.  Everything has to be conveyed through the spoken word (texting is ok) and what sounds are in the background.

- Don

Quoted from Don The latter.  Everything is heard.   Don

I'm so lost :/

I had an idea, but now it seems I didn't understand at all.

The initial post only talks about conversations happening through electronic means, but now are we saying that that's literally all that happens? We don't see anything? Are we just writing a radio play or is it still a visual script to put to film?

Quoted from Warren Last one from me... Is this one entry per writer? I know that for the last few challenges there could be multiple entries.

I'd prefer one per writer as I'm requiring everyone to read all the scripts.  Not sure the fairness if there are writers who have multiple scripts in.  

- Don

Quoted from Don Damn you, Gary. I didn't think of that. I'm going to say, "No" unless the camera is broken.  Everything has to be conveyed through the spoken word (texting is ok) and what sounds are in the background. - Don

Disregard my last question, I think this answers it.

Hmm... might be out of this one. Good luck all.

Quoted from LC Good question, Dave. As in The Guilty, most of the action takes place in one room in the Cop station, and the call that comes in is just audio with sound effects in the background. It's to be filmed, right Don? So, not a radio Play as such? Like the 911 call shows - we only see the operator and hear everything on the other end of the call - we don't cut between both scenes?

LC,

Actually, a radio play is what I was gunning for, tho a radio play that could be filmed.  Iow, a blind person experiencing the film would get the same enjoyment as a seeing person.  

- Don

Damn. I didn't read this right, either. No visuals whatsoever? Afraid I'm out as well. Shame, cuz I think I've got a good idea. :(

Still, I'll definitely check out the scripts. Curious to see how you guys pull this off.

I don't think it's that you can't have visuals. Don said you need action lines to describe the action.

I'm thinking of The Vast Of Night where a long single-take scene occurs between a telephone switchboard operator and a series of townspeople over the phone. The only camera movement is a slow push in. Intense scene, really effective.

Quoted from ReneC I'm thinking of The Vast Of Night where a long single-take scene occurs between a telephone switchboard operator and a series of townspeople over the phone. The only camera movement is a slow push in. Intense scene, really effective.

If that's the case, I can work with those guidelines.

Quoted from ReneC I don't think it's that you can't have visuals. Don said you need action lines to describe the action. I'm thinking of The Vast Of Night where a long single-take scene occurs between a telephone switchboard operator and a series of townspeople over the phone. The only camera movement is a slow push in. Intense scene, really effective.

Actually what he said was you need action blocks to describe what you are hearing. Not what you are seeing.

Quoted from ReneC I don't think it's that you can't have visuals. Don said you need action lines to describe the action.

I don't think everyone is on the same page here.

Feels like the sticking point is whether you can or can't have visuals.

I do think Don has made it clear that you can't. The action is for describing what you hear, but it looks like it's still not clear.

Following......

Yeah, going back over the thread it does seem like it's all about the audial. But even a stage play has visuals...and it's still something that has to be screened visually to be a screenplay, no?

Interestingly what I do right now is interpret phone conversations. It might be doctors with patients, insurance conversations, nursing homes, emergency calls, banks, legal entities.

Some conversations are a lot of fun. The only thing, I can't draw from that as it's always 3 or more - it's let's say a doctor, a patient and me (interpreting from English to Russian and Russian to English). But man these people... Translating for them is difficult and fun

Quoted from ReneC ...and it's still something that has to be screened visually to be a screenplay, no?

Great point. This doesn't seem like a "screenplay" challenge. Still, I'm all for thinking outside of the box. Gonna see if I can't make my story work over a black screen...

Well, Don said like a radio play but one that can be filmed, so that means it's still visual. I'm going with that. The key seems to be the visuals don't tell any of the story, the story comes from the conversations.

Funny, but this seems to be an all tell and no show challenge.

Quoted from ReneC Funny, but this seems to be an all tell and no show challenge.

Potential for some high concept ideas. This kind of short could be produced for very little money.

Quoted from Zack Potential for some high concept ideas. This kind of short could be produced for very little money.

Can you give an example, Zack?
I'll admit I'm flailing around in the dark here. Which is quite apt really,  ;D  but... High concept how?

I mean, you could do a story about a person getting a call from their lover, who is in a city halfway across the world. A city that happens to be under attack from giant-killer insects from space!

Maybe high-concept was a poor choice of words. Lol. But my point is you're not really restricted by budget here.

Quoted from ReneC Well, Don said like a radio play but one that can be filmed, so that means it's still visual. I'm going with that. The key seems to be the visuals don't tell any of the story, the story comes from the conversations. Funny, but this seems to be an all tell and no show challenge.

I read it as no visual. Just me

Quoted from Zack I mean, you could do a story about a person getting a call from their lover, who is in a city halfway across the world. A city that happens to be under attack from giant-killer insects from space! Maybe high-concept was a poor choice of words. Lol. But my point is you're not really restricted by budget here.

;D Thanks, Zack.
So, like the radio play of War of the Worlds or The Day of the Triffids.

Hmm, I thought I was still in the dark. Maybe I'm getting it now...

Quoted from LC ;D Thanks, Zack. So, like the radio play of War of the World's or The Day of the Triffids. Hmm, I thought I was still in the dark. Maybe I'm getting it now...

Exactly. You've got it, Libby.:)

Just finished my first draft.  ;D 8)

Good for you, mate!

You gonna enter, Libby?

Not sure. Probably depend on the usual - a decent idea in 4 pages.

Definitely mulling it over.

You are amazing, Zack, for coming up with something so fast.
Can't wait to read yours. Hoping it's horror.   ;)

Quoted from LC Hoping it's horror.   ;)

No promises.  ;D  ;) Hope you are able to get something in! :)

The advantage of being asleep when the announcement happens is that I wake up to all the questions having being already answered ;-)

An audio screenplay! A very interesting challenge.  I've written a few of those  they are loads of fun. I'll have a think and see if I can come up with anything.

Can you write it in audio format or nornal screenplay format only?

When I say audio format, I mean the action usually marked as FX and describes what you hear rather than what you see.

:-/ :-/ what is going on here... I'm as confused as my dog chasing a stick I didn't throw.

Quoted from Matthew Taylor :-/ :-/ what is going on here... I'm as confused as my dog chasing a stick I didn't throw.

Well, Matthew.  One every few months we have a writing challenge - usually a short writing challenge lasting a week or so wherein the person running the challenge comes up with the most perfect challenge idea and everyone else absolutely ruins it by not understanding the challenge theme.
< sigh >

Write an audio screenplay as per the theme above.

- Don

Quoted from MarkRenshaw Can you write it in audio format or nornal screenplay format only?

I'll take both.

- Don

Quoted from ReneC Funny, but this seems to be an all tell and no show challenge.

Yes, exactly!

- Don

Quoted from MarkRenshaw When I say audio format, I mean the action usually marked as FX and describes what you hear rather than what you see.

There was an attempt to write a narrative podcast a while back, BC (Before Covid). I played around with that format then and it would work well for this.

It can still be visual. Certain visuals have accompanying noises.

I return 45 posts later...got it. Good one, Don!

I think people may be overthinking this -- just give your best attempt at a conversational short.  Maybe it hits the mark and maybe it doesn't.  At worst you'll have written something.  Or in my cash, I'll have written something that is the worst.

I might be too dumb for this. Lol

It's an audio drama, right? Like what QCode does: https://www.qcodemedia.com/all-shows

Neat challenge!

Alright, so just to be clear... All of the stories need to play out over a black screen, no visuals , only audio. Am I in the ballpark?

Quoted from Zack Alright, so just to be clear... All of the stories need to play out over a black screen, no visuals , only audio. Am I in the ballpark?

To see or not to see, that is the question

Quoted from Heretic It's an audio drama, right? Like what QCode does: https://www.qcodemedia.com/all-shows Neat challenge!

Yes, exactly.  Except it is a conversation between 2 (or more) individuals over an electronic communications device.

Quoted from Zack Alright, so just to be clear... All of the stories need to play out over a black screen, no visuals , only audio. Am I in the ballpark?

Yes, you are on the pitchers mound.  Note: I'm not going to penalize anyone for using visuals, tho. But it's the conversation(s) and what can be heard that is important.

- Don

So...if it's a black screen the action will only be to try and describe the sound so people can know what device is being used?? Probably easiest is walkie talkie. For Zoom I guess first dialog could mention that it's zoom? So for cell phones you'd describe ringing in action block till someone answers, then dialog begins??

Quoted from mmmarnie So...if it's a black screen the action will only be to try and describe the sound so people can know what device is being used?? Probably easiest is walkie talkie. For Zoom I guess first dialog could mention that it's zoom? So for cell phones you'd describe ringing in action block till someone answers, then dialog begins??

Right!

- Don

Quoted from mmmarnie So...if it's a black screen the action will only be to try and describe the sound so people can know what device is being used?? Probably easiest is walkie talkie. For Zoom I guess first dialog could mention that it's zoom? So for cell phones you'd describe ringing in action block till someone answers, then dialog begins??

For me, this is okay:

OVER BLACK

The sound of footsteps. Then a dull THUD.

A moment passes. Then the BEEP-BEEP-BEEP of someone pressing the keys on a cellphone.

911 OPERATOR (V.O)
9-1-1, What's your emergency.

DAVE (V,O.)
I've fallen and I can't get up.

And this is okay:

OVER BLACK - SOMEONE'S BEDROOM

The sound of footsteps. Then a dull THUD.

A moment passes. Then the BEEP-BEEP-BEEP of someone pressing the keys on a cellphone.

911 OPERATOR (V.O)
9-1-1, What's your emergency.

DAVE (V,O.)
I've fallen and I can't get up.


And this is NOT okay:


INT. DAVE'S BEDROOM - NIGHT

Dave, cell phone in hand, drunkenly stumbles towards the bathroom. He stubs his toe on the corner of a small dresser and falls to the floor.

He presses 9-1-1 on his phone.

911 OPERATOR (V.O)
9-1-1, What's your emergency.

DAVE (V,O.)
I've fallen and I can't get up.

Submitted. :)

Judging by your standards, Dave, I've written mine correctly. Lol

Quoted from eldave1 For me, this is okay: OVER BLACK The sound of footsteps. Then a dull THUD. A moment passes. Then the BEEP-BEEP-BEEP of someone pressing the keys on a cellphone. 911 OPERATOR (V.O) 9-1-1, What's your emergency. DAVE (V,O.) I've fallen and I can't get up. And this is okay: OVER BLACK - SOMEONE'S BEDROOM The sound of footsteps. Then a dull THUD. A moment passes. Then the BEEP-BEEP-BEEP of someone pressing the keys on a cellphone. 911 OPERATOR (V.O) 9-1-1, What's your emergency. DAVE (V,O.) I've fallen and I can't get up. And this is NOT okay: INT. DAVE'S BEDROOM - NIGHT Dave, cell phone in hand, drunkenly stumbles towards the bathroom. He stubs his toe on the corner of a small dresser and falls to the floor. He presses 9-1-1 on his phone. 911 OPERATOR (V.O) 9-1-1, What's your emergency. DAVE (V,O.) I've fallen and I can't get up.

Poor Dave is at it again.  ::)

Quoted from ReneC Poor Dave is at it again.  ::)

In all fairness - I was drunk when I fell.

Check out CALLS on Apple TV+.

I think that's almost exactly what Don has in mind.

Another less great example is BURIED. Though that has visuals, it takes place entirely in a "coffin." Probably not exactly what Don is thinking, but if you just look at how the story unfolds, it's mainly over the cell phone.

Interesting challenge. If an idea pops for me, I'll be in.

Quoted from PKCardinal Another less great example is BURIED. Though that has visuals, it takes place entirely in a "coffin." Probably not exactly what Don is thinking, but if you just look at how the story unfolds, it's mainly over the cell phone.

Great example and a really great movie. :)

Quoted from Zack Great example and a really great movie. :)

I read the screenplay. It's good, and I think Ryan Reynolds elevated it even further. So did the directing, there are some excellent choices made in the making of it.

Just saw the challenge this afternoon, had a fantastic idea and now realise after reading through the board my idea may well be unachievable.
But it's not a challenge if it's easy so I will now have a go at writing it.
Good luck to everyone entering.

Quoted from PKCardinal Check out CALLS on Apple TV+. I think that's almost exactly what Don has in mind. Another less great example is BURIED. Though that has visuals, it takes place entirely in a "coffin." Probably not exactly what Don is thinking, but if you just look at how the story unfolds, it's mainly over the cell phone. Interesting challenge. If an idea pops for me, I'll be in.

Paul gets me.

- Don

Didn't  realise this was due Friday and I'm working all week, I do most of my writing on weekends but not giving up yet, I'll see what I can do.

Quoted from PKCardinal Check out CALLS on Apple TV+.  ...

Did. Makes it real. Thanks Paul!

So there's a ten script limit? I'd better hustle and flesh out what I have.

Quoted from ReneC So there's a ten script limit? I'd better hustle and flesh out what I have.

I don't know about that. I thought Don was being hypothetical with the 'must read' directive -  
Participants must read and comment/review in the discussion board at least 10 other scripts

I do see this as well:

Participation requires all participants to read and comment in the discussion board on all (up to ten) scripts.


What? No more than ten entries in entirety?
Never seen that before.

Needs clarification from Don.
If true, yep, better get cracking.

I thought the 10 entries was my limit?

Quoted from AnthonyCawood I thought the 10 entries was my limit?

Now, that's probably no joke.  ;D

Maybe he doesn't expect more than 10 scripts, so he threw in the caveat of reading and critiquing up to 10...

Well - got a draft done

Quoted from eldave1 Well - got a draft done

Yeah me too... I think you can call it a draft, or a turd, either will do.

Actually ended up writing my first idea as well (the one before I understood it was all heard and no visuals), will post it after the OWC.

Quoted from Warren Yeah me too... I think you can call it a draft, or a turd, either will do. Actually ended up writing my first idea as well (the one before I understood it was all heard and no visuals), will post it after the OWC.

Cool. A two-fer

Quoted from ReneC Maybe he doesn't expect more than 10 scripts, so he threw in the caveat of reading and critiquing up to 10...

I initially read it as you had to read all or at least up to 10 scripts. Looking at it again, I'm not sure what he meant.

Quoted from eldave1 Cool. A two-fer

If only the script I have to submit was as good as the one I don't, this is going to be a bloodbath, the OWC comments section that is.

I'm thinking we all need to be pretty understanding with this batch of scripts.

Quoted from ReneC Maybe he doesn't expect more than 10 scripts, so he threw in the caveat of reading and critiquing up to 10...

That is correct.  The moment I say, "Read all scripts," there will be 100 entries.  I wanted to make sure that all the scripts get read, but not impose an undue burden on the writers.

Don

I'm in, let's do this!

Quoted from MarkItZero I'm in, let's do this!

Really??? Awesome, haven't read anything from you in forever!

Sweet! Looks like we've got a pretty good turnout so far. :)

Quoted from MarkItZero I'm in, let's do this!

Welcome@

Just so I understand correctly, can there be a static background, i.e. we keep the same view through the entire thing? If so I can do that.

Just think Radio Play/audio only, Mark.
Dialogue heavy + sound effects.
All sound, no visuals.

What do mean by static view?
First I though you meant hearing static.

PK gave an example of the Apple TV audio series, Calls. Check it out, below.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Calls_(TV_series)

Hope that helps.
Edit: Saw this days later. Don't know why it didn't link correctly. Anyway, everyone gets it now. Thanks, Don. :)

Quoted from LC What do mean by static view?

I meant that we establish a scene and then stay with that same view there for the rest of the script.

Also, it has to be over black? This really is a challenge...

Mark, do you mean view or view-point?

The view point could change if the call is transferred for example, or if call-waiting is picked up. Or even if the first caller hangs up, maybe?

As long as it's a conversation between two people only at any given time it's good. Least that was my interpretation.

Of course I could be wrong.
I'll let others weigh in if that doesn't answer your question sufficiently.

From Don:
A conversation between two (or more) people - There can be multiple conversations, but each conversation has to be between two people at a time...


P.S. You could use OVER BLACK, and then perhaps write a sound we hear.
Don's not worried about formatting for this. Do the best you can.

Here's one template I found. There are lots.

http://www.thewritersguide.co.uk/radio.html
Actually that one's not perfect as this challenge is all about the Call.

Just wing it. No-one should pull you up on formatting for this. The dialogue is key imho.

Quoted from LC Mark, do you mean view or view-point?

I mean something like this:

INT. LIVING ROOM - NIGHT

A cell phone rests on a table. It begins to vibrate. A hands reaches down and grabs it. Touches a part of the screen to pick up.

And the rest of the action blocks would refer to sound.

I hope that makes things more clear.

Mark, you don't need to set the visual. I personally would start with the sound of a vibrating phone, or even a specific ringtone - one that indicates character perhaps, or is even in direct contrast to the dialogue that follows:

You only have four pages, and what we hear (as the audience) is the focus.

Well, I've started one, it's complete trash so far though lol

Looks like it might be a decent turnout with some very strong writers getting involved

I just wrote something. In WORD. I'll reread and see what I can do with it and if it's worthy being converted to an fdf format.

I'm a bit scared to reread though. I might kill myself with my own stupidity.

Well, I wrote and submitted my entry. It is what it is.

I've a pretty decent story in my head but I'm not going to write anything until Friday afternoon. That way the frustration and second guessing will be whittled down to just a couple hours.

Quoted from khamanna I'm a bit scared to reread though. I might kill myself with my own stupidity.

I've lived this long without being killed by my own stupidity, I'm pretty sure you are safe.

Quoted from Warren I don't think everyone is on the same page here.

I think this is turning into a "Don has this idea that he can't explain very well, so it's turning into a 'who can figure out what Don wants' challenge."

Quoted from Zack Great point. This doesn't seem like a "screenplay" challenge.

It's just a 'Challenge' to try and figure out what the challenge is.

Quoted from mmmarnie I might be too dumb for this. Lol

I think person running the challenge is too dumb for the challenge.

Quoted from Warren I initially read it as you had to read all or at least up to 10 scripts. Looking at it again, I'm not sure what he meant.

Actually, this doesn't pertain to anyone who has commented thus far.  (iow, everyone on this thread understands what the challenge is about and the importance of reading and commenting on everyone else's script.  The 'read all scripts (up to ten)' is for the new person who doesn't get it' so they understand that if they don't participate their script will be removed.)

btw, All the scripts received thus far have met the challenge as I envisioned it.

- Don

Quoted from MarkD I mean something like this: INT. LIVING ROOM - NIGHT A cell phone rests on a table. It begins to vibrate. A hands reaches down and grabs it. Touches a part of the screen to pick up. And the rest of the action blocks would refer to sound. I hope that makes things more clear.

Just assume that it should all be over black and you can't go wrong. If you want it set in a living room add one simple line of dialogue book. Where are you? Answers my living room. All that being said if you only did one physical description, I'd buy it. But I don't think you need it

oooohhhhh

Late to the party.. Maybe I'll try to come up with something.

Has all the dumbass questions been asked yet? ;D

I have one to add, does the other person have to be heard?

Quoted from irish eyes I have one to add, does the other person have to be heard?

So, no visuals or very minimal visuals, you want one side of a conversation met with...silence? How dramatic.

I say go for it.

Quoted from Don I think this is turning into a "Don has this idea that he can't explain very well, so it's turning into a 'who can figure out what Don wants' challenge."

Don's brilliant. He gets to throw out a challenge and sit back to let us all figure out what the challenge actually is and then pat us on the back when we come up with something that sorta works while pretending that was his intention all along.  ;D

Quoted from irish eyes oooohhhhh Late to the party.. Maybe I'll try to come up with something. Has all the dumbass questions been asked yet? ;D I have one to add, does the other person have to be heard?

It does say:

Quoted Text A conversation between two (or more) people

Do they both have to talk?? I'd think so - BUT - I would not ding your script if they didn't. Because just like everyone in America - characters have a right to remain silent.  However, I insist that you name your silent character either MIRANDA, BOB or KNIGHT.

Quoted from Don I think this is turning into a "Don has this idea that he can't explain very well, so it's turning into a 'who can figure out what Don wants' challenge." It's just a 'Challenge' to try and figure out what the challenge is. Actually, this doesn't pertain to anyone who has commented thus far.  (iow, everyone on this thread understands what the challenge is about and the importance of reading and commenting on everyone else's script.  The 'read all scripts (up to ten)' is for the new person who doesn't get it' so they understand that if they don't participate their script will be removed.) - Don

;D

Gotcha.

Quoted from Matthew Taylor Looks like it might be a decent turnout with some very strong writers getting involved

Agreed, It looks like we might have all the heavyweights in on this one. I'm looking forward to reading this batch of scripts, that's for sure.

Whoever receives the object that is roughly the size of a cat's head (if such an object exists) will have done it against the best.

Quoted from ReneC So, no visuals or very minimal visuals, you want one side of a conversation met with...silence? How dramatic. I say go for it.

Why does it have to met with silence? The responses of the person speaking on the phone will basically portray the story...

So every single movie or TV show you've watched you actually hear the other person on other end of the phone????   Stupid screenwriting books and their one-sided phone conversations.

It's ok... I'll add in the other voice which in turn will take from the short.

I'm just an Electrician what do I know :(

That Calls show on Apple TV Plus is pretty good.

It got me thinking, the wheels are turning... they're not attached to any power source but something is moving.

Quoted from irish eyes Why does it have to met with silence? The responses of the person speaking on the phone will basically portray the story... So every single movie or TV show you've watched you actually hear the other person on other end of the phone????   Stupid screenwriting books and their one-sided phone conversations. It's ok... I'll add in the other voice which in turn will take from the short. I'm just an Electrician what do I know :(

No, but the difference is we can't see the person's reactions listening to the other person speaking, so there will be dead air while the speaker listens before the story moves forward.

And that can be really effective if done right. It can be tense and suspenseful. So yeah, go for it.

I got a draft of something and I like it.  ;D

Submitted. Probably the shortest script I've written thus far. Probably not very good but I'll wait and see what people think about it.

Regarding Mark's (IrishEyes) intention of a one sided phone conversation... All one must do to realize it can work is listen to some of Bob Newhart's stand up comedy from the 60s. The guy literally defined the one-sided phone conversation gag, and to hilarious effect. IMO. And all without visuals.

Steve

Quoted from SAC Regarding Mark's (IrishEyes) intention of a one sided phone conversation... All one must do to realize it can work is listen to some of Bob Newhart's stand up comedy from the 60s. The guy literally defined the one-sided phone conversation gag, and to hilarious effect. IMO. And all without visuals. Steve

But...he WAS the visual...

Quoted from ReneC But...he WAS the visual...

Actually Newhart got his big start when his comedy album hit no 1 in the early sixties.  So you were listening to his one-sided phone calls.  So I can see how it would work.

In other news, I actually wrote something and submitted.  A shocker, I know, and if you are brave enough to read it, I have some therapists I can recommend.

This is the first time since 2019 that I think I've been really psyched for a challenge. I also haven't written much since 2019 so I do feel pretty rusty and know my script will be hammered, but I'm actually enjoying the process, the writing, and the discussion boards.

Has anyone, in their interpretation of the requirements, got any hard no's. So something you'd really mark a script down for and potentially DQ a script for?

Like I said in a different post, I think leniency is key with these scripts as this is the most challenging challenge in a long time IMO, but in saying that, the further you move away from the actual requirements the easier it is to write a more rounded story, that's the 'challenge' part of it, right?

So what would be too far outside of that... if anything?

Purely for discussion...

For me the challenging part was producing a plot solely out of conversations with the occasional background noise.  I'm guessing others had that challenge as well.  But it was good to stretch the writing muscles and I'm going to cut people a lot of slack in the reviews, even moreso because of how short the scripts are.  Would love to see a bunch of one pagers.

Quoted from Warren Has anyone, in their interpretation of the requirements, got any hard no's. So something you'd really mark a script down for and potentially DQ a script for? Like I said in a different post, I think leniency is key with these scripts as this is the most challenging challenge in a long time IMO, but in saying that, the further you move away from the actual requirements the easier it is to write a more rounded story, that's the 'challenge' part of it, right? So what would be too far outside of that... if anything? Purely for discussion...

I'll bite. :)

If any of the plot or character development is achieved by means of visual storytelling, I'll mark it down a point or so, depending on how egregious it is. I won't necessarily DQ a script outright for such a thing, unless of course there's clearly no real effort to follow the guidelines of the challenge.

Is that fair, or do you think that's too harsh?

Quoted from Gary in Houston For me the challenging part was producing a plot solely out of conversations with the occasional background noise.  I'm guessing others had that challenge as well.

For me, the most challenging part was convincing myself that people wouldn't be offended by my story.  ;D ;D ;D

Quoted from Zack If any of the plot or character development is achieved by means of visual storytelling, I'll mark it down a point or so, depending on how egregious it is. I won't necessarily DQ a script outright for such a thing, unless of course there's clearly no real effort to follow the guidelines of the challenge. Is that fair, or do you think that's too harsh?

No, I think this fits with the requirements. I think if you're telling your story outside of that electronic communication method and background sounds you are probably not hitting the mark.

It's a hell of a lot easier to tell a story visually, as I think a lot of us are finding.

So I'll be more likely to mark people highly if they've stayed within those requirement.

I also highly doubt there would be an all out DQ unless, as you said, they clearly haven't tried in any way to play in the boundaries given.






The reason I asked the question is that I often find that once the scripts go up, people start drawing lines in the sand about what they think is appropriate, based on their interpretation. I thought by getting it out now, some of that could be avoided.

I'm curious how many, if any, are writing a radio or stage play format versus screenwriting format. I guess we'd be outing ourselves if we say though, so game day reveal?

Quoted from Gary in Houston For me the challenging part was producing a plot solely out of conversations with the occasional background noise.  I'm guessing others had that challenge as well.  But it was good to stretch the writing muscles and I'm going to cut people a lot of slack in the reviews, even moreso because of how short the scripts are.  Would love to see a bunch of one pagers.

Agreed, this was tough.

I generally find that people use the upper page limit more often than the lower, I'd be very surprised if there are any one-pagers at all.

Quoted from ReneC I'm curious how many, if any, are writing a radio or stage play format versus screenwriting format. I guess we'd be outing ourselves if we say though, so game day reveal?

I thought about this as well. I worried that people are on a screenwriting site for screenplays written in screenplay format might take issue. So while it may be the 'better' way to write this kind of story, I was concerned that if it wasn't a really amazing script that the unusual format may be a distraction to people more familiar with screenplays... if that makes sense.

Here's a question.

How do you introduce characters we don't see?

Quoted from Zack Here's a question. How do you introduce characters we don't see?

So all the characters?

Yeah good question, and exactly what I mean as far as a potential sticking point.

If you intro them in any way other than a name, that's visual, and won't be seen anyway.

Then again, even the name (as a character in action) is relatively pointless unless it's used in the dialogue.

Also if this is to be more reflective of a radio play, I have no idea what they do in those. Do they give some sense of character?

So no idea... hope that helps.



Then again, not every element of a normal script transfers to a visual anyway, so...?

Quoted from Don This is the first of three un-interrelated writing challenges...  UP first

Random side bar, I'm thinking we are going to lose something in each of the challenges. First no visual, then maybe no dialogue, then something else...?

In any format, the speaker is named so the actor knows which lines are theirs. It is helpful to the listener to have their name spoken so they can identify speakers by voice too, and if/when they are spoken about. What they look like doesn't matter, their character should come through in their dialogue.

I would explain how I think the character introductions should be done in these circumstances, but I don't want to out my script. I suppose this is one of those points that we should be pretty lenient on.

Quoted from ReneC In any format, the speaker is named so the actor knows which lines are theirs. It is helpful to the listener to have their name spoken so they can identify speakers by voice too, and if/when they are spoken about. What they look like doesn't matter, their character should come through in their dialogue.

But the character is named in the CHARACTER section, just before dialogue.

Are you talking about in the ACTION?

Quoted from Zack I would explain how I think the character introductions should be done in these circumstances, but I don't want to out my script. I suppose this is one of those points that we should be pretty lenient on.

Yeah I kinda realized after the fact that answers to that question could be a bit telling.

Moving on.

Quoted from Warren But the character is named in the CHARACTER section, just before dialogue. Are you talking about in the ACTION?

I would simply have their name in dialogue, no caps intro.

I've always thought that it's a no-no to introduce a new character with dialog. Hmm. I'm overthinking this. lol

Quoted from ReneC I would simply have their name in dialogue, no caps intro.

Roger that.

There is definitely going to be a random mixture of the way these scripts are formatted.

Quoted from Zack I've always thought that it's a no-no to introduce a new character with dialog. Hmm. I'm overthinking this. lol

I feel like so much of this challenge is a no-no, I think we do the best with what we've got.

Quoted from Warren I feel like so much of this challenge is a no-no, I think we do the best with what we've got.

Good point.

Ultimately, as long as it's clear and sticks to the requirements, I'll consider it job done. This isn't a traditional screenwriting challenge, format's not something that should be penalized (Jeff would be horrified).

And so I submitted what I have in the format I decided was best, and let the chips fall where they may.

Quoted from ReneC Ultimately, as long as it's clear and sticks to the requirements, I'll consider it job done. This isn't a traditional screenwriting challenge, format's not something that should be penalized (Jeff would be horrified).

Agreed, I imagine the bulk, if not all of my comments will pertain to story and not format, unless of course there is something wildly out of place.

If this was a normal challenge, I'd have a lot more to say about format.

And... submitted.

I looked at the BBC Radio Play format template included in FadeIn but it looked weird, stuck with normal screenplay format instead.

Quoted from AnthonyCawood I looked at the BBC Radio Play format template included in FadeIn but it looked weird, stuck with normal screenplay format instead.

I did the same, I thought it looked horrible lol

I Actually quite enjoyed this challenge despite my initial confusion. Working without visuals really makes you think and I quite like my story so far (No doubt that will change when you all read and slate it lol)

Best of luck to all, genuinely looking forward to see how others have gone about it

My software doesn’t allow for radio or audio plays, it does just about everything else including graphic novels, I too looked at the BBC website and decided against adopting that format as  it would have been to time consuming. Just stuck with the standard format and while it looked a little weird to begin with it actually looked fine by the end.

So many ways to describe a character without visuals. Is he drinking? - ice cubes hitting a glass. Exhausted? - Breathing heavy. Happy? - humming a tune? Sad? - crying.

In a sense, we’re more or less describing our character’s mood at the moment.

I looked at a podcast format at first and started out that way, and then decided it looked too clunky and I was going to have to use Word to write it in because Final Draft wouldn't really format that way.  The stage play formats in FD were also a little foreign to me so I just went with what I knew.

But I'm glad this is an open challenge because restricting it to a certain genre or having to include certain objects just wouldn't have worked, I think.

I got something started. It's gonna be... interesting. When I fall flat on my face at least no one will be able to say I played it too safe.

Quoted from MarkItZero I got something started. It's gonna be... interesting. When I fall flat on my face at least no one will be able to say I played it too safe.

I'm sure it's gonna be an absolute banger!  ;D

SS writers have the uncanny ability to completely trash their scripts before the challenge, but then submit absolute gold and kill it in the scores.

With that being said, my script is absolute trash and you will all hate it  :)

Quoted from MarkItZero I got something started. It's gonna be... interesting. When I fall flat on my face at least no one will be able to say I played it too safe.

I still have fond memories of reading your short, while in a dentists waiting room, where a guy was crapping in a stall and shouted “fuck yeah!” Laugh out loud funny stuff.

Quoted from SAC I still have fond memories of reading your short, while in a dentists waiting room, where a guy was crapping in a stall and shouted “fuck yeah!” Laugh out loud funny stuff.

And you had that hilarious script with the hologram car girl farting in that guys face. Clearly we're both masters of highbrow comedy.

Quoted from irish eyes oooohhhhh Late to the party.. Maybe I'll try to come up with something. Has all the dumbass questions been asked yet? ;D I have one to add, does the other person have to be heard?

No, the other person doesn't have to be heard.  

Quoted from ReneC Don's brilliant. He gets to throw out a challenge and sit back to let us all figure out what the challenge actually is and then pat us on the back when we come up with something that sorta works while pretending that was his intention all along.  ;D

Yes, particularly since the "I have a rock-solid challenge with no ambiguity" thing didn't work.

Quoted from StevenClark ...All one must do to realize it can work is listen to some of Bob Newhart's stand up comedy from the 60s. The guy literally defined the one-sided phone conversation gag, and to hilarious effect. IMO. And all without visuals.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BBMm00P3QT0

Quoted from Warren Has anyone, in their interpretation of the requirements, got any hard no's. So something you'd really mark a script down for and potentially DQ a script for?

Thus far, all the scripts fit within what I was thinking when I came up with the "bullet-proof challenge (that wasn't bullet-proof."

Quoted from Zack Here's a question. How do you introduce characters we don't see?

Like,

     JOHN
Mom? It's me, John.

or
     JOHN
Come in, Mission Control.

or
      JOHN
Fifty bucks for a beej?

And... resubmitted. :) Feeling pretty good about my entry.

I'm back and have just submitted my effort.  Will be interesting to see what everyone comes up with.

I’ve been able to recite The Driving Instructor by rote since I was in my late teens! Good call! He’s got a bunch of classic bits.

Quoted from Don Thus far, all the scripts fit within what I was thinking when I came up with the "bullet-proof challenge (that wasn't bullet-proof."

Considering this post was after I submitted my script, that's pretty good news to me.

Quoted from Zack And... resubmitted. :) Feeling pretty good about my entry.

Oh, Zack - You just doomed yourself!

Looks like this is going to be a really big challenge as far as participation goes.

So ready to start the reviewing process.

Quoted from AnthonyCawood I looked at the BBC Radio Play format template included in FadeIn but it looked weird, stuck with normal screenplay format instead.

Just had a look at this on their website, god-awful. I'm sure it serves the purpose for the medium but it has no flow whatsoever. It's more like reading a shopping list.

Agree Warren, you can see why I decided against it ;-)

Submitted. I like it...so I'm sure it sucks. Totally fits the parameters, though...so I'm sure it doesn't. My confidence is overwhelming.

Quoted from JEStaats Oh, Zack - You just doomed yourself!

Suppose I should have clarified... I feel pretty good about my entry's chances of being destroyed in the reviews.  ;D ;D ;D

Quoted from JEStaats Submitted. I like it...so I'm sure it sucks. Totally fits the parameters, though...so I'm sure it doesn't. My confidence is overwhelming.

I can smell your confidence from Ohio. Musky.

Anyone else find themselves reading and rereading and rereading their script once it's submitted in an attempt to convince themselves that they're actually onto something? Finding themes and subtext that you didn't consciously put there when you wrote it.

I think I'm up to reread 20 or 30 and this is a god-damn masterpiece.

It's great to see all this excitement!

Don really hit on something - even if it was by accident.  ;D
Just ribbing the boss btw.

I have a few half-baked going nowhere ideas at this point. Should be easy. Oh, well.
Looking forward to reading a gazillion stellar four-pagers.

Quoted from LC It's great to see all this excitement! Don really hit on something - even if it was by accident.  ;D Just ribbing the boss btw. I have a few half-baked going nowhere ideas at this point. Should be easy. Oh, well. Looking forward to reading a gazillion stellar four-pagers.

You've still got plenty of time to get something in. You've got this!  :)

Quoted from Warren Anyone else find themselves reading and rereading and rereading their script once it's submitted in an attempt to convince themselves that they're actually onto something? Finding themes and subtext that you didn't consciously put there when you wrote it. I think I'm up to reread 20 or 30 and this is a god-damn masterpiece.

I tend not to go back once submitted - I am lazy like that.

As Steven Wright said:

I just wrote a children's book....

I didn't mean to.

Quoted from Warren Anyone else find themselves reading and rereading and rereading their script once it's submitted in an attempt to convince themselves that they're actually onto something? Finding themes and subtext that you didn't consciously put there when you wrote it. I think I'm up to reread 20 or 30 and this is a god-damn masterpiece.

Exact opposite for me. Lol. The more I reread it, the more I question my sanity. The reviews are gonna be... fun.  ;D  :P

Quoted from Warren Anyone else find themselves reading and rereading and rereading their script once it's submitted in an attempt to convince themselves that they're actually onto something? Finding themes and subtext that you didn't consciously put there when you wrote it. I think I'm up to reread 20 or 30 and this is a god-damn masterpiece.

I do that sometimes, but I'm never convinced it's brilliant. Usually it's just -- dammit, I should have used "a" instead of "the." Stupid shit like that.

That said, people often find subtext and cool stuff that I had no clue I put into the script. I always take credit for it, though.

Quoted from LC Don really hit on something - even if it was by accident.  ;D

My 'Bullet-proof-perfect' theme crashed, burned, and sank, but I can't be happier with the results.  Every script is in the spirit of the theme and while the execution hasn't precisely been as I envisioned it, so far there are no scripts that are disqualified.  

However, it is a bit of a peen fest ... Need more Yang to balance out the Yin

Quoted from SAC I do that sometimes, but I'm never convinced it's brilliant. Usually it's just -- dammit, I should have used "a" instead of "the." Stupid shit like that. That said, people often find subtext and cool stuff that I had no clue I put into the script. I always take credit for it, though.

I guess that's the kicker though, it never is brilliant, I just have a knack for convincing myself I have something more than I do. Reality is that this script is going to get eaten alive.

I do the exact same thing with words and sentence structure, that will literally drive you insane.

Of course  ;)

I've reread mine a few times and am convinced it's as simple and predictable as I'd feared, but it's the thing that demanded to be written, so I couldn't do anything else. I'm just the medium, the messenger, the hand to my muse. And that's more character than my entry has.

Quoted from ReneC I've reread mine a few times and am convinced it's as simple and predictable as I'd feared, but it's the thing that demanded to be written, so I couldn't do anything else. I'm just the medium, the messenger, the hand to my muse. And that's more character than my entry has.

Be interesting to see how many people, if any, went in the same direction.

Quoted from Don My 'Bullet-proof-perfect' theme crashed, burned, and sank, but I can't be happier with the results.  Every script is in the spirit of the theme and while the execution hasn't precisely been as I envisioned it, so far there are no scripts that are disqualified.   However, it is a bit of a peen fest ... Need more Yang to balance out the Yin

What do you mean, Don?  The men are taking over the world again?

Pia, Marnie, Kham, et aliae.
We are needed.

Not sure I have the time.
I will try. Maybe. We'll see.  :-/

I refused to re-read mine because I'm afraid it will read as bad as I remember when I was writing it.

Oh I’m weak. This bday and work - there’s just no time for a rewrite. Good luck to you, guys! I’m gonna read some hopefully.

Today I had the saddest call btw- it was a Chaplin and an old confused but feisty lady. She kept telling him she’s going to be discharged tomorrow. He just wanted to pray with her

Quoted from khamanna Oh I’m weak. This bday and work - there’s just no time for a rewrite. Good luck to you, guys! I’m gonna read some hopefully. Today I had the saddest call btw- it was a Chaplin and an old confused but feisty lady. She kept telling him she’s going to be discharged tomorrow. He just wanted to pray with her

Khamanna, you can make it. One more day.

Also, happy birthday!

I've managed to hack something together so I'm in.

I also tried the audio format but just didn't like it so I've gone with the normal screenplay format.

Do I think my script is brilliant? If I finish a script and I'm happy with it, I go through a period where I'm in love with the project, but all it takes is one bad review to make me doubt myself.

Quoted from khamanna Oh I’m weak. This bday and work - there’s just no time for a rewrite. Good luck to you, guys! I’m gonna read some hopefully. Today I had the saddest call btw- it was a Chaplin and an old confused but feisty lady. She kept telling him she’s going to be discharged tomorrow. He just wanted to pray with her

Sounds perfect for the challenge.

It looks like I'll be in.

I know it sounds redonkulous because everybody says it... but, I truly don't expect this script to be competitive. And, that wasn't my goal for this one anyway. I've been dealing with some weird health stuff and it's been saddling with me with a couple of odd but very distracting symptoms. Mainly, insomnia, brain fog and this strange, indescribable "numb" sensation in my legs and left arm (it's not numbness, but I don't have a better word for it). Point is, I've never been as locked up creatively as I have been in the last 8 weeks. So, I saw this challenge as an opportunity to break through the wall and get words on paper. Didn't care if the words made sense. I just wanted words. And, thankfully, I've accomplished that. First written words in 8 weeks. That's what SimplyScripts can do for you.

Quoted from PKCardinal It looks like I'll be in. I know it sounds redonkulous because everybody says it... but, I truly don't expect this script to be competitive. And, that wasn't my goal for this one anyway. I've been dealing with some weird health stuff and it's been saddling with me with a couple of odd but very distracting symptoms. Mainly, insomnia, brain fog and this strange, indescribable "numb" sensation in my legs and left arm (it's not numbness, but I don't have a better word for it). Point is, I've never been as locked up creatively as I have been in the last 8 weeks. So, I saw this challenge as an opportunity to break through the wall and get words on paper. Didn't care if the words made sense. I just wanted words. And, thankfully, I've accomplished that. First written words in 8 weeks. That's what SimplyScripts can do for you.

WTH bro?  Hope you're doing okay.

Quoted from Gary in Houston WTH bro?  Hope you're doing okay.

Been a weird couple of months to say the least. Some days are downright awful. But, I'm getting through it. And, as they say, many people have WAY worse things to deal with than this. So, I'm not complaining. (Not meaning to anyway.) I'm hopeful I'm on the downward slope of this thing. Still, there are days where I would chop my left arm and legs off just to stop the sensation. Would sure like to know what that's all about.

Today, I'm just glad I finally wrote something again. I'm really itching to get back to working on my feature.

(Really, it's all good. Nothing that can't be managed. Thanks for asking.)

Quoted from PKCardinal It looks like I'll be in. I know it sounds redonkulous because everybody says it... but, I truly don't expect this script to be competitive. And, that wasn't my goal for this one anyway. I've been dealing with some weird health stuff and it's been saddling with me with a couple of odd but very distracting symptoms. Mainly, insomnia, brain fog and this strange, indescribable "numb" sensation in my legs and left arm (it's not numbness, but I don't have a better word for it). Point is, I've never been as locked up creatively as I have been in the last 8 weeks. So, I saw this challenge as an opportunity to break through the wall and get words on paper. Didn't care if the words made sense. I just wanted words. And, thankfully, I've accomplished that. First written words in 8 weeks. That's what SimplyScripts can do for you.

Glad to hear you'll be in.

Check your PMs.

Paul's in!? Well shit. This challenge just got a helluva' lot tougher.

Only a few hours left! Getting excited! Or is that nervousness that's creepin' up on me?  ;D :P

Good for you, PK! Another one with the gift of the gab in. Wonder how many we'll get...

Sorry to hear you've been ailing, hope you're feeling 100% again very soon.

Quoted from LC What do you mean, Don?  The men are taking over the world again? Pia, Marnie, Kham, et aliae. We are needed. Not sure I have the time. I will try. Maybe. We'll see.  :-/

Lead by the example then, Lib!

I just came home. Maybe I'll have strength to write it and even submit.

Quoted from khamanna Lead by the example then, Lib! I just came home. Maybe I'll have strength to write it and even submit.

C'mon, ladies! Get it done!  ;D ;D

Quoted from Zack C'mon, ladies! Get it done!  ;D ;D

Well, I'm writing and in my confused mind the idea I came up with is absolutely brilliant!

Quoted from khamanna Well, I'm writing and in my confused mind the idea I came up with is absolutely brilliant!

Unleash that brilliance upon us!  ;D ;D ;D

Only a couple more hours to go! Woo!

Quoted from PKCardinal It looks like I'll be in. I know it sounds redonkulous because everybody says it... but, I truly don't expect this script to be competitive. And, that wasn't my goal for this one anyway. I've been dealing with some weird health stuff and it's been saddling with me with a couple of odd but very distracting symptoms. Mainly, insomnia, brain fog and this strange, indescribable "numb" sensation in my legs and left arm (it's not numbness, but I don't have a better word for it). Point is, I've never been as locked up creatively as I have been in the last 8 weeks. So, I saw this challenge as an opportunity to break through the wall and get words on paper. Didn't care if the words made sense. I just wanted words. And, thankfully, I've accomplished that. First written words in 8 weeks. That's what SimplyScripts can do for you.

It's all good, Paul, particularly since it isn't a contest.  It's a challenge.  And since you've gotten a script in, you've already 'won' (as has everyone who got their script in despite not understanding the 'bullet-proof-clear'^(tm) theme that only made perfect sense to me and you.).

I am sorry to hear you are in a weird place. I can sympathize/empathize. I'm glad that this challenge has helped a little to break through the fog a little. It has for me and I'm a little more inspired and energized.

- Don

Quoted from LC What do you mean, Don?  The men are taking over the world again?

Yes, they are.  Those bastards!

Quoted from LC Pia, Marnie, Kham, et aliae. We are needed.

You're our only hope.

- Don

Done. Submitting now.

For the record, Warren, how many times do I have to reread it until I think it's awesome?

Thanks again, Don. I really needed this.

Writing is so much fun.

Quoted from PKCardinal Done. Submitting now. For the record, Warren, how many times do I have to reread it until I think it's awesome? Thanks again, Don. I really needed this. Writing is so much fun.

Glad to hear it, mate :)

I believe 32 is the magic number :p

Quoted from Don You're our only hope. - Don

Whenever I write something people die...

Steve Clark... Did you enter???

Just sent in a last minute revision. Better? IDK,  the big glass of rum thinks so. I guess I'll find out tomorrow.

Quoted from irish eyes Steve Clark... Did you enter???

As of 11:01pm eastern, no.

Quoted from JEStaats Just sent in a last minute revision. Better? IDK,  the big glass of rum thinks so. I guess I'll find out tomorrow.

I've tortured Don with multiple revisions.  ;D ;D ;D

I honestly don't think I've ever rewritten a short this many times. Still got time for another revision or two. ;D

SO CLOSE!!!!

oh wait. It's past the due time. did I get one in? Who knows

Submitted!!!

Everything turned out how I planned. Words poured from my subconscious onto the page as if by divine guidance. The computer and I became one entity with a singular purpose: to write the greatest screenplay ever. And we did.

Just kidding. It was a trainwreck.

Holy Moly Guacamole... I think I barely got mine in on time.

I had so many ideas, but I didn't start until way too late, story of my life apparently...

Quoted from khamanna oh wait. It's past the due time. did I get one in? Who knows

You better have!

Quoted from MarkItZero You better have!

Oh, you just want me to have your back!

Folks,

Messages have gone out via PM and email to everyone who submitted a script.  I will start posting them at noon, edt on Saturday, 4/17.

I'm off to bed (to read a few more scripts).

Don

I always get an idea too late, just like Claudio. :)

Did I get one over the wire? Who knows?
One for the girls? Or maybe two, if Kham is in.

The quiet before the storm... :)

Bring it on.

Quoted from Warren The quiet before the storm... :) Bring it on.

Ha! Warren, you took the words out of my mouth.

You know we'll be asleep when this lot debut, right?
Well, I will be.

Quoted from LC Ha! Warren, you took the words out of my mouth. You know we'll be asleep when this lot debut, right? Well, I will be.

Yeah I will too, and I have a pretty hectic day tomorrow so don't imagine I'll get to read too many, if any.

But Monday it will be on!

It's time... Release the kraken!

It's like waiting for Xmas morning,  eh Zack?

Quoted from JEStaats It's like waiting for Xmas morning,  eh Zack?

And I'm ready to open my effin' presents!!! ;D

I can't take it anymore! My nipples... They scream with anticipation!!!