tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-129984972024-03-16T03:09:37.605+02:00Fun Joel's Screenwriting Blog(OR EL DUDERINO IF YOU'RE NOT INTO THE WHOLE BREVITY THING)<br /><br /> -- On Screenwriting and Related TopicsFun Joelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15864299581418165834noreply@blogger.comBlogger404125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12998497.post-42659650839680873452010-05-02T13:19:00.001+03:002011-06-02T06:34:58.110+03:00FFFJ: Furry VengeanceSo, time once again for me to come out of my quasi retirement to "check in here at the office." Thought I'd post another FFFJ (From the Files of Fun Joel) screenplay review, since I saw this movie has just come out this weekend. Additionally, since my comments from when I read the screenplay seem to have been effectively shown to be accurate, figured it was further worthwhile.<br /><br />WARNING: SPOILER ALERT<br /><br />So, I read this screenplay professionally back in June 2008, and ended up rating it a PASS. The writers (Michael Carnes and Josh Gilbert) got the slightly better response of WEAK CONSIDER. Here's how I summed up the plot in a logline:<br /><br /><blockquote>"Forest animals unite to combat a development project led by a neglectful father whose son hates his lack of conservationism."<br /></blockquote><br />For those who don't know, PASS means the script is bad, not that it should be passed on to someone else to look at. My comments in brief were summarized as:<br /><br /><blockquote>"A repetitive script and major similarities to other recent projects marks this as less than promising. And a decidedly mean-spirited comedic style also hurts its chances for XXXXX production."<br /></blockquote><br />Still, the negative comments about this script were of course more detailed than that. Here are my comments:<br /><br /><blockquote><span style="font-style: italic;">Furry Vengeance</span> is a mildly entertaining script with a good (though obvious from square one) moral. At the same time, however, the film grows extremely repetitive, and thus boring. Furthermore, the comedy is extremely mean-spirited, which though it works, is still not the best tack for family programming. Ultimately, the film is good but far from great, and unlikely to be worth pursuit for XXXXX production.<br /><br />Clearly, the subject of <span style="font-style: italic;">Furry Vengeance</span> makes it a decent film for XXXXX consideration. Conceptually, this is prime family film territory. It is in execution, however, that this film loses its potential. Firstly, on its own terms, the screenplay falls short. Though the concept starts out as mildly entertaining, in short order the gags become overly repetitive. There is little difference between the animal attacks at the beginning of the film and the end. Yes, the scope increases somewhat, but overall they don’t feel different enough.<br /><br />Compound this problem with the fact that it feels unoriginal in comparison to other similar films. Many of the specific gags feel as if they were pulled straight out of <span style="font-style: italic;">Evan Almighty</span>. And then the climax and many other gags are overly reminiscent of <span style="font-style: italic;">Hoot</span> (not the best predecessor).<br /><br />Slapstick comedy by its very nature stems from people getting hurt. But in this script, the gags seem overly mean-spirited. While there have been many family films that have employed such a comedic style, it still feels as if it isn’t the most responsible material to be putting in front of kids.<br /><br />In the end, this script could potentially turn a profit. Though even that is not assured, due to the aforementioned reasons. Still, since this is not the most promising script out there, and since it's not a particularly strong concept either, there seems no reason for XXXXX to pursue this property.<br /></blockquote><br />So, how does this match up to the final product?<br /><br />Well, for starters, it is worth noting that it opened with a weak $6.5 million box office. Who knows how it will perform in the long run. As <a href="http://is.gd/bRlU5" target="_blank">this review</a> points out, the film has "no significant competition in the family-movie sphere."<br /><br />More importantly, though, the reviewer points to some of the same pros and cons that I did, which underscores why it likely had such a poor opening.<br /><blockquote><br />While parents' minds wander, young kids will enjoy the slapstick, much of it involving pee and poop, in this tale of enterprising woodland creatures determined to save their home from developers....<br /><br />From defecating birds to squirt-happy skunks, screenwriters Michael Carnes and Josh Gilbert substitute crude gags for humor at nearly every turn.</blockquote><br />I always take pride in seeing my comments borne out at the box office, and I am proud that I recommended my employers <span style="font-style: italic;">not</span> move forward with production on this low quality project.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tags:</span> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Furry+Vengeance" target="_blank" rel="tag">Furry+Vengeance</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/screenwriting" target="_blank" rel="tag">screenwriting</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/film" target="_blank" rel="tag">film</a>Fun Joelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15864299581418165834noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12998497.post-69455829216051359312009-10-16T09:21:00.000+02:002009-10-16T09:24:36.598+02:00Good New Research ToolIf I updated my sidebar links at all (been years, I'd guess) I would <span style="font-style: italic;">definitely</span> be included this new one in my "Research Tools" category (and/or in "Stir the Creative Pot").<br /><br />There is a new (to my knowledge) search aggregator specifically designed for creative people: <a href="http://creativesear.ch/" target="_blank">creativesear.ch</a>. Brought to you by <a href="http://www.dandad.org/" target="_blank">D&AD</a>, an educational charity connected with the design and advertising communities, creativesear.ch delivers search results from Google, Google Images, YouTube, Wikipedia, Flickr, Twitter and many others. And all in a visually appealing layout/design.<br /><br />While designed (I think) for visual creatives (e.g. graphic designers), I can also see this becoming a very handy tool for screenwriters (and other creative writers) while in the research phase of a project. Try it out by typing in a search term at the top of the page, and let your creative juices flow.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tags:</span> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/screenwriting" target="_blank" rel="tag">screenwriting</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/research" target="_blank" rel="tag">research</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/creativesear.ch" target="_blank" rel="tag">creativesear.ch</a>Fun Joelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15864299581418165834noreply@blogger.com100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12998497.post-61106428383447784992009-10-14T21:08:00.000+02:002009-10-14T21:11:12.164+02:00FFFJ: Where the Wild Things AreLet me preface this screenplay review by stating that I really hope I was wrong. It has happened with one or two scripts before, where when they came out I realized I just didn't get what the screenwriter was going for. And if that happened here, I would attribute it to the fact that Spike Jonze was both (co-)writer and director of this project, and thus may not have fully communicated his vision on paper. This often happens with writer-directors or with writers who are working closely with a director while scripting the film.<br /><br />Still, I love the <span style="font-style: italic;">Wild Things</span> book, and have been a fan of Spike Jonze's for a very long time. So I really do hope this film turns out to be a really good, fun, imaginative one. But if it does, my guess is that it will be more the result of the various changes they made to it in the time after I read this script.<br /><br />For starters, I read this screenplay at the end of November 2005, and the draft was dated October 12, 2005. So there was certainly plenty of time to update this script between then and now. But to be blunt, I thought the screenplay was terrible. And yet, I recommended that the company consider the project, solely for the underlying material. Jonze and Dave Eggers' screenplay, however, was really weak, in my opinion. Here's what I wrote back then:<br /><br /><i></i><blockquote><i>Where the Wild Things Are</i> has only one thing going for it, and that is the underlying book on which it is based. The script does a poor job of adapting the material, and the writers show no evidence of understanding how a script would best communicate the core material. Still, should any attachments be amenable to the essential rewrites, the project may be worth XXXX's attention for the value of the property itself.<br /><br />It is no secret that Sendak's book is one of the most beloved children's books of all time. But the difficult journey it has taken to silver screen production is equally well-documented. If this script is any indication, the film version would be an unlikely success. If, however, a stronger screenplay adaptation becomes a possibility, XXXX should certainly consider getting involved.<br /><br />As with such books as <i>Jumanji</i>, the key difficulty here is how to expand a short children's book into a feature length film. Where <i>Shrek</i> was successful in this regard, and <i>Jumanji</i> only moderately so, this script fails. It takes way too long to get going, features a number of extraneous scenes and elements, and fails to gain any momentum. Furthermore, it is sloppily scripted, with characters popping up without introduction and others introduced multiple times. But the biggest technical weakness of Jonze and Eggers' script is the plethora of unfilmable asides that are used to deliver character, rather than actions or dialogue, as is truly necessary in film.<br /><br />A further issue with the screenplay will likely be its inability to successfully reach the youth market that must be it's primary target audience. While adults will likely appreciate the story's metaphoric aspects, and kids may subconsciously absorb some of this as well, the film's story, on its face, will likely bore children. While certain scenes are certain to please and entertain, too many scenes develop too slowly, and the storyline barely moves at all. It develops slowly, Max is overly passive, and he never really finds a clearly articulated goal.<br /><br />Ultimately, the only real reason to consider this screenplay is for the potential held by its supporting material. But this is certainly a strong enough reason to warrant some consideration.</blockquote>Not pretty, eh? So, as I said, I hope I was wrong. But <a href="http://www.variety.com/review/VE1117941353.html?categoryid=31&cs=1" target="_blank">this review</a> makes it seem that instead of fixing the problems with the story, Jonze simply tried to overcompensate with visuals. As it says:<br /><br /><blockquote>Fleet of foot, emotionally attuned to its subject and instinctively faithful to its celebrated source, "Where the Wild Things Are" earns a lot of points for its hand-crafted look and unhomogenized, dare-one-say organic rendering of unrestrained youthful imagination. But director Spike Jonze's sharp instincts and vibrant visual style can't quite compensate for the lack of narrative eventfulness that increasingly bogs down this bright-minded picture.<br /></blockquote><br />I am sure that that sort of strategy will work for many audience members. And by the way, <a href="http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/hr/film-reviews/where-the-wild-things-are-film-review-1004021258.story" target="_blank">this review</a> is not much different.<br /><br />The question remains whether a large enough portion of the audience (both adult and kid alike) will find the visuals appealing enough to make them overlook the lack of a solid story. Of course, it will have a good opening just due to people's interest in the film. The question remains, however, whether this will actually be the great film that so many hope it will be.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tags:</span> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/screenwriting" target="_blank" rel="tag">screenwriting</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Spike+Jonze" target="_blank" rel="tag">Spike+Jonze</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Dave+Eggers" target="_blank" rel="tag">Dave+Eggers</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Maurice+Sendak" target="_blank" rel="tag">Maurice+Sendak</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Where+the+Wild+Things+Are" target="_blank" rel="tag">Where+the+Wild+Things+Are</a>Fun Joelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15864299581418165834noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12998497.post-55654848291521963132009-09-14T23:33:00.000+03:002009-09-14T23:36:03.762+03:00FFFJ: Dorian GrayThe impetus for me posting to the blog today was <a href="http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/hr/film-reviews/dorian-gray-film-review-1004011653.story" target="_blank">this review</a> I read in <a href="http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/" target="_blank">The Hollywood Reporter</a>, about the new film <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1235124/" target="_blank"><span style="font-style: italic;">Dorian Gray</span></a> that screened at <a href="http://www.tiff.net/default.aspx" target="_blank">Toronto International Film Festival</a>. I remembered that I had read the screenplay for it a little over a year ago (in June of 2008). So I thought it would be a great opportunity to post another in my continuing series FFFJ: From the Files of Fun Joel.<br /><br />Many of you know the story that the film is based on, but in case you don't, here's my Logline for the screenplay:<br /><br />"Young heir, turned on to hedonism, maintains his youthful appearance while a portrait ages and shows his soul's true blackness."<br /><br />Ultimately, I gave this screenplay a WEAK CONSIDER and the writer a CONSIDER. My main reason for this was that the script was well-written, but the style seemed very odd for today's audiences. And I think that Brunette's review in <span style="font-style: italic;">THR</span> picks up on similar things. He writes:<br /><br /><blockquote>Whether or not the re-interpretation is always successful is another question entirely, but superb production values and imaginative, vigorous camerawork, music, and editing should carry the film a long way. It's not exactly clear who the audience is for this occasionally subtle literary adaptation that also aspires, almost against its will, to be a horror movie, but it deserves to find an audience somewhere.<br /></blockquote><br />So, on to my critique then. Here are the comments I wrote on Toby Finlay's screenplay:<br /><br /><i></i><blockquote><i>Dorian Gray</i> is a well-written gothic horror script based on the famous Oscar Wilde novel. Yet while it is as good an adaptation as could be, the fact remains that the story feels dated and may not appeal to modern audiences. Coupling this with the budget such a period film will likely require, the film becomes a much less promising commercial endeavor. Bottom line, if this <i>type</i> of film is on XXXX’s agenda, this could be an excellent choice for production. But on its own merits, the film would likely not be the strongest candidate for development.<br /><br />While there is much to like in this story, the style remains firmly rooted in another time. Gothic horror of this nature is far removed from the style of horror that plays well today. And though the story is certainly not without its charms, it remains a dated style. Because of this, <i>Dorian Gray</i> may have a difficult time finding a sizable audience. Finlay, it should be noted, has done a good job of at least attempting to update the story. The addition of Emily, the excising of some of the more dated sequences (e.g. the hunting party), the extension of the book’s time span, and the greater grounding in the birth of modernism are all adjustments that help widen the film’s appeal. But it still seems unlikely to be enough, as the story’s core maintains the same feel.<br /><br />At the same time, should XXXX be in the market for a film of this nature, despite its built-in problems, this script would be as good as any of its type. It is a solid effort with good pacing and excellent structure. Characters are strong, as is dialogue. And Finlay is also worthy of further consideration as well. But most probably, the film is unlikely to succeed commercially.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">COMMERCIAL POTENTIAL:</span><br />With a relatively large budget and a dated feel that will alienate many audiences, this film will be fighting an uphill battle to find commercial viability.</blockquote><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tags:</span> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/screenwriting" target="_blank" rel="tag">screenwriting</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Dorian+Gray" target="_blank" rel="tag">Dorian+Gray</a>Fun Joelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15864299581418165834noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12998497.post-81974276182705946382009-09-14T23:11:00.000+03:002009-09-14T23:14:06.093+03:00Less Than a YearSo people ask me periodically if my blog is dead. I tell them it is more like "retired." Not in the sense of a sports player whose number is "retired." When that happens, no one gets to wear that number again, so it is taken out of circulation.<br /><br />I mean it more in the sense of a guy who retires from his job, but might still occasionally pop back into the office to say Hi, answer some questions, and maybe even do a <span style="font-style: italic;">drop</span> of work.<br /><br />So that's my intention for now. I don't suspect I will be a "full-time" blogger again. But I don't want to shut it down entirely. I'd rather just post occasionally, whenever I feel I have something else worthwhile to say. I know that means I will probably not have a very large readership, but so be it. If anyone cares to read and/or comment, I welcome you and your loyalty. If not, I'll just write for the heck of it!<br /><br />All this by way of intro to my next post, to come momentarily. :-)Fun Joelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15864299581418165834noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12998497.post-68410072505851294332008-11-12T22:53:00.000+02:002008-11-12T22:55:41.593+02:00Expo Reminder & Drinks Gathering Announcement<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTgrkahCWXI-J8UFKrVIj8y_NkIf5SjDO3xB1oeIQ-EnGkyM8EsTjEYUZ8ir76-8OVGEvczwWD7nXzHu75X1I8fGVbHWpKLV2y1gd8RKu-kmeUb5fdAQ32IBlF_t8BBx7ORkX8/s1600-h/Expo+logo+08.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 66px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTgrkahCWXI-J8UFKrVIj8y_NkIf5SjDO3xB1oeIQ-EnGkyM8EsTjEYUZ8ir76-8OVGEvczwWD7nXzHu75X1I8fGVbHWpKLV2y1gd8RKu-kmeUb5fdAQ32IBlF_t8BBx7ORkX8/s320/Expo+logo+08.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5267874566571130098" border="0" /></a>So, first of all, I wanted to remind you all one last time about the two seminars I am teaching at this year's Screenwriting Expo. After being named a Star Speaker the last three years at the Expo, I've been invited back to present my most popular seminar from last year, "<a href="http://screenwritingexpo.com/program/session_detail.php?sessionID=8036" target="_blank">Effective Use of Flashbacks and Voiceovers</a>."<br /><br />Even more exciting for me is the new seminar I will be teaching this year: "<a href="http://screenwritingexpo.com/program/session_detail.php?sessionID=8134" target="_blank">Writing in a Web 2.0 World</a>." In preparing this seminar, I've had the chance to speak to many professionals who are very involved in the world of web video, and the like, and have also read and watched a ton of material on the subject. The seminar will exploring what is unique about writing scripts for the web, as well as highlighting ways to market yourself, network, and straight out work using <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Web_2.0" target="_blank">Web 2.0</a> technologies.<br /><br />Furthermore, I wanted to spread the word about this year's 4th Annual <a href="http://funjoel.blogspot.com/2007/10/3rd-annual-post-expo-scribosphere.html" target="_blank">post-Expo</a> <a href="http://funjoel.blogspot.com/2006/10/post-expo-scribosphere-gathering.html" target="_blank">Scribosphere</a> <a href="http://funjoel.blogspot.com/2005/11/official-expo-meet-up.html" target="_blank">Drinks gathering</a> on Sunday night. All are welcome to join, so please come if you are at the Expo, or just feel like popping over anyway. This year we'll be returning to the scene of the first year's gathering, the beautiful Moroccan-themed (and nearby) <a href="http://www.figueroahotel.com/" target="_blank">Figueroa Hotel</a>, and we will be at the poolside bar. The Fig is at 939 S. Figueroa St., 90015 (for your GoogleMaps-ing pleasure), and is easy walking distance from the Convention Center. Figure we'll start by around 6:00 on Sunday evening, though I may arrive sooner. We'll end whenever things just wind down naturally!<br /><br />Feel free to leave a note here, or email me, to let me know that you'll be joining. Also, if you'll be attending the Expo and want to meet up some other time, feel free to get in touch as well!<br /><br />Hope to see many of you there!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tags:</span> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Screenwriting+Expo" target="_blank" rel="tag">Screenwriting+Expo</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Scribosphere" target="_blank" rel="tag">Scribosphere</a>Fun Joelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15864299581418165834noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12998497.post-45561277041311005122008-11-11T01:36:00.000+02:002008-11-11T01:37:56.829+02:00New Screenwriting/Indie Production WebsiteI recently learned about a new website that is designed to help collaborations through the entire production process. Named <a href="http://www.fivesprockets.com/" target="_blank">Five Sprockets</a>, the site offers some free software (including yet another free screenwriting application) and free registration. The site's name is a reference to the five stages of the production process: Development, Pre-production, Production, Post-production and Distribution.<br /><br />I have not tried out the screenwriting software, so to be honest I can't speak to its quality. But what attracted me most to the site is its "Community" section. In an easy-to-use format, the section offers how-to videos for use by indie filmmakers, articles aimed at guiding the developing screenwriter (a number of which seem to offer solid insights), event listings, and discussion forum. There is also a job board, though at this point listings are still extremely sparse (the site is still in beta).<br /><br />There are many sites out there aimed at this niche, and I can't claim to have spent much time on all of them. But this site definitely seems like one worth keeping an eye on!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tags:</span> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/screenwriting" target="_blank" rel="tag">screenwriting</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/indie+filmmaking" target="_blank" rel="tag">indie+filmmaking</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Five+Sprockets" target="_blank" rel="tag">Five+Sprockets</a>Fun Joelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15864299581418165834noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12998497.post-38784774888084276572008-11-06T01:15:00.000+02:002008-11-06T01:17:55.498+02:00Late for HalloweenI just saw this "trailer" that would most appropriately be titled <span style="font-style: italic;">Halloween at The Office</span>. I got a kick out of it, though it is not nearly as well done or entertaining as <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sfout_rgPSA" target="_blank"><span style="font-style: italic;">Shining</span></a>.<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/sA1qEckOkP8&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xcfcfcf&hl=en&fs=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/sA1qEckOkP8&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xcfcfcf&hl=en&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />Interesting how horror and comedy seem to often work as two sides of the same coin. To wit, <a href="http://www.xbox.com/en-US/community/news/2008/0723-comiccon.htm" target="_blank">this story</a> about a new project for Xbox Live.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tags:</span> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/horror+films" target="_blank" rel="tag">horror+films</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/comedies" target="_blank" rel="tag">comedies</a>Fun Joelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15864299581418165834noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12998497.post-15596141302188122142008-11-05T01:58:00.000+02:002008-11-12T00:00:13.425+02:00Annual Fall Script Services SaleWell, it is that time of year again, when I reduce prices on my screenplay consulting services. I am again offering a 10% discount on my main screenplay services for the next two months, through the end of 2008!<br /><br />Full, in-depth Development Notes now go for just <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">$270</span>, reduced from the usual $300 price. Less comprehensive but always popular Studio Style Coverage is now only <span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">$135</span>, marked down from $150. And of course, each service still comes with a free follow-up phone call after you receive your report!<br /><br />I'm pleased to have kept my prices on the more affordable and lower end of prices for comparable options out there. And I'm proud of the positive responses I've gotten from my clients, including numerous repeat customers. To give you an idea, here are a few endorsements from some of my prior clients:<br /><br /><blockquote>"Having used other screenplay services in the past, the thing I appreciate about Joel's services the most is the fact that he treats you as a fellow writer and takes the extra time to make sure you understand his comments in order to strengthen your script for sale." -- Nathan Flood<br /><br />"Joel's coverage is clear, concise and tells you the issues in your script in a non-judgmental way which is invaluable for any writer struggling with an early draft. Plus he's fast and excellent value for money, always a bonus!" -- Lucy, UK, www.lucyvee.blogspot.com<br /><br />"FunJoel was thorough, professional, and didn't pull any punches. In a field fraught with intense competition, Joel Haber encourages the new writer to reach for the best within them -- to produce a quality script -- and nails both strengths and weaknesses with uncanny precision." -- Robin Roderick/Critical Mass<br /><br />"It's a rare thing for a reader to have both a good analytical mind and a creative sensibility. Joel has both these qualities in abundance. Plus, he's got a helluva good sense of humor." -- J. Edwards<br /><br />"Finally -- a script consultant who delivers real value and real advice, without patronizing or antagonizing." -- Chase Libbey</blockquote><br />I look forward to working with many of you this Fall! If you are interested, please <a href="mailto:FunJoel%5BAT%5Dearthlink%5BDOT%5Dnet">email</a> me directly (change the bracketed [AT] and [DOT] to the appropriate symbols), and we can discuss specifics. And if you are curious about what each of those types of reports entails, click on the sidebar link to the left that reads "Fun Joel's Screenplay Services," or <a href="http://funjoel.blogspot.com/2005/06/screenplay-services.html" target="_blank">HERE</a>.<br /><br />Thanks!<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">UPDATE: If you're coming here via Alex Epstein's blog, welcome! If you haven't been here before, please dig through the archives. I also look forward to hopefully working with some of you soon.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tags:</span> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/script+reading" target="_blank" rel="tag">script+reading</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/screenplay+coverage" target="_blank" rel="tag">screenplay+coverage</a>Fun Joelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15864299581418165834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12998497.post-34231145070926178102008-10-25T01:10:00.000+02:002008-10-25T01:13:04.616+02:00And Now a Word from GodJust wanted to give a heads up about a new web series that just launched this week, aimed at teens of faith.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.g-dcast.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-style: italic;">G-dcast</span></a> aims to breathe new life into the old tales of the Old Testament, using fun and artful animation, hip storytelling and unique guests. Though produced from a Jewish perspective, and aimed at Jewish teens, the series should be great for any religious viewers, regardless of their specific faith, if the opening episode is any indicator:<br /><br /><object width="400" height="225"> <param name="allowfullscreen" value="true"> <param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"> <param name="movie" value="http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=2029852&server=vimeo.com&show_title=0&show_byline=0&show_portrait=0&color=ffffff&fullscreen=1"> <embed src="http://vimeo.com/moogaloop.swf?clip_id=2029852&server=vimeo.com&show_title=0&show_byline=0&show_portrait=0&color=ffffff&fullscreen=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" allowscriptaccess="always" width="400" height="225"></embed></object><br /><br />Pronounced "Godcast," the title is written with a dash since that is how some Jews write God's name in English. I should also clarify that I don't think you have to be some kind of crazy religious fanatic to appreciate these videos. I think any spiritually-minded individual may find something of value here.<br /><br />A new episode will come out each week, released on Mondays, and will feature storytellers from around the world, hip-hop artists, country western singers, and many more.<br /><br />The opening episode has some nice writing with clever witticisms disguising some deep thoughts. The effect is to make them accessible to a wide audience, while entertaining viewers at the same time. Kudos to series creator and New Media maven <a href="http://www.lefton.net/" target="_blank">Sarah Lefton</a> on a clever concept, well executed!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tags:</span> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/web+video" target="_blank" rel="tag">web+video</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/animation" target="_blank" rel="tag">animation</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/G-dcast" target="_blank" rel="tag">G-dcast</a>Fun Joelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15864299581418165834noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12998497.post-33062864096236076432008-10-17T11:28:00.000+02:002008-10-17T11:30:04.268+02:00Get Schooled Now!Some of you may remember a few mentions I've made over the years about my friend Brooks' feature film, <span style="font-style: italic;">Schooled</span>. Since he developed the script within the context of our writing group, I got to see its development from its early stages, all the way through to final production and release.<br /><br />Well, he has recently released the DVD for sale, and as a special promotion, you can not only purchase it at a discount of 20% off list price, but he has also rounded up a free package of extra "add-ons" that are valued over $100. These are aimed at related topics or interests, and if the film interests you, the add-ons should as well.<br /><br />Starring Daniel Kucan (Extreme Makeover: Home Edition), the film is a dramatic look at how we educate our children. It questions the mainstream education system and explores alternative ways of fully respecting children while also educating them. It's screened all over the world and gotten rave reviews, especially from the alternative education community.<br /><br />Any of my readers who have school-aged children should consider watching this film for the questions it raises and the discussions it may spark. But any of you who enjoy supporting indie film should also be interested. I'm proud of Brooks' effort, and hope you'll consider supporting him as well.<br /><br />To learn more about the special offer and DVD release, click <a href="http://www.schooledthefilm.com/112" target="_blank">HERE</a>.<br /><br />Here are a few endorsements for <span style="font-style: italic;">Schooled</span> from the alternative education community:<br /><br />"A RARE, REFRESHING AND AUTHENTIC LOOK AT THE TRANSFORMATIVE POWER OF EDUCATION FREED FROM THE NEED TO MANIPULATE" -- Dr. Jan Fortune-Wood, Author, <span style="font-style: italic;">Winning Parent, Winning Child</span><br /><br />"SO REAL AND HONEST. INSPIRING. AFFIRMING." -- Isaac Graves, Conference Director, Alternative Education Resource Organization<br /><br />"IF YOU DON'T SEE <span style="font-style: italic;">SCHOOLED</span> YOU WILL FOREVER BE FOOLED BY THOSE WHO MANAGE THE FORCED SCHOOLING SCHEME" -- John Taylor Gatto & Roland Legiardi-Laura of The Odysseus Group<br /><br />"CHALLENGES YOU TO CONSIDER LETTING KIDS DIRECT THEIR LIVES" -- Sara Bennett, Co-Author, <span style="font-style: italic;">The Case Against Homework</span><br /><br />"UNLIKE MANY OF THE 'TEACHER AS HERO' FILMS (DEAD POETS) OR 'ANTI-HERO' (HALF NELSON), <span style="font-style: italic;">SCHOOLED</span> TAKES THE AUDIENCE TO THE HEART OF A TEACHER'S BELIEFS." -- Dr. Ken Alexander, Sr. Lecturer, Edith Cowan University, Australia<br /><br />-----------------------------<br /><br /><a href="http://www.schooledthefilm.com/112" target="_blank">BUY <span style="font-style: italic;">Schooled</span> HERE</a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tags:</span> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Schooled" target="_blank" rel="tag">Schooled</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Brooks+Elms" target="_blank" rel="tag">Brooks+Elms</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/independent+film" target="_blank" rel="tag">independent+film</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/alternative+education" target="_blank" rel="tag">alternative+education</a>Fun Joelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15864299581418165834noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12998497.post-16818880823200949512008-10-08T23:40:00.000+02:002008-10-08T23:41:16.237+02:00Safari Picture Update #8<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFGFpEzsIfrpi6mGEP2xc7HCy-m10xT9RnbU0IxHg1amVPV921KmAEMOL1DyJ70Qd7_t-TEOaNhDdn9mfafGQ26MxR3rQzJjPw-RH4HyrC97PVv6AUOaZ4WkD3-TixUMeW4p_K/s1600-h/74.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFGFpEzsIfrpi6mGEP2xc7HCy-m10xT9RnbU0IxHg1amVPV921KmAEMOL1DyJ70Qd7_t-TEOaNhDdn9mfafGQ26MxR3rQzJjPw-RH4HyrC97PVv6AUOaZ4WkD3-TixUMeW4p_K/s320/74.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5254890337371755922" border="0" /></a>Time has come for my next Safari Picture Update. In my <a href="http://funjoel.blogspot.com/2008/05/safari-picture-update-7.html" target="_blank">last official update</a>, I caught you all up to the point where I delivered my first draft to the producers, and got their positive feedback and notes. Then in <a href="http://funjoel.blogspot.com/2008/09/rumors-of-this-blogs-death-have-been.html" target="_blank">THIS POST</a> I mentioned a bit of the work I did subsequently. Let me go into some more detail now, and also catch you up on further developments.<br /><br />When I turned in my first draft, the producers were generally pleased, though they definitely felt more work was necessary. They gave me plenty of notes over the phone. After thinking those notes over, getting feedback from my writing group and reviewing the script on my own, I told the producers I would get them a revised draft in about a month and a half.<br /><br />One of the major changes I was asked to make was the inclusion of three more characters. The producers all along have been pushing for as realistic a film as possible, and they felt that these were all characters who logically would be around for the events in the film. You may recall that the film was already longer than I wanted it to be. Adding in 3 more characters (and also figuring out how best to utilize them, without them simply being extraneous "dead weight") became the major story challenge for me in this revision.<br /><br />The other major story challenge I encountered was that the producers were somewhat unhappy with the ending I had written (and rightly so, I think). As I mentioned previously, the primary focus of this film is on elephants. But in the climax I had in the first draft, though elephants were present and involved, the main action dealt largely with lions. This muddled the point of the film somewhat. Thus, I needed to really improve that climax.<br /><br />A third challenge I faced had nothing to do with the script itself. When I first said I could finish the draft in a month and a half, I wasn't fully set on my summer plans. As it turned out, I ended up moving out of my apartment right around the same time that I was to finish the draft, putting my stuff into storage, and heading back East for the summer. This put a strain on my schedule.<br /><br />The notes I got from the producers on Draft Two were somewhat mixed. They agreed that the climax was much more effective, and that I had generally addressed most of the notes they'd given me. However, they were unable to express specifically why, but they felt that much of the script (at least the first half) did not flow as well. I was confused by this note, but we each went off on our own to reread the script and see if we could better figure out the problem.<br /><br />About a week later I came back to them with an analysis of the problem and a proposed solution. I felt there were a few issues that were significant here. The first was a largely mechanical problem. When I faced the addition of new characters in the second draft, I also looked at how to cut down on the length, both to get it closer to my target length, and to make room for these new characters. And despite the additions, I was still able to trim a few pages of length from the script. In doing so, however, I never gave it a good enough reread to make sure the transitions between scenes remained smooth. That was something i needed to address.<br /><br />A second issue dealt with characterization. That is something that's needed work all along, and has improved bit by bit with each draft. But since invariably, most people felt the second half of the script flowed better and more quickly than the first half, I focused on how to make the first half more engaging. I suggested that a greater focus on conflicts between the characters could go a long way here.<br /><br />Finally, the producers had always wanted the film's secondary purpose (in addition to the main story) to be exposing the audience to a somewhat typical safari experience. Thus, I had a number of scenes that while connected in some way to the story, remained somewhat ancillary. I suggested that trimming some of those scenes away might help the screenplay to flow better.<br /><br />The producers liked these ideas, and I set off to make those changes. In the process, I also further focused on rearranging some scenes, cutting out others, and shortening still others. I took a week or two, and then sent it back to them. They were getting ready to shoot a short, however, and were very busy on that. Thus, I was going to have to wait to get their feedback.<br /><br />That feedback finally came last week. They felt the flow issue was solved, and that it was in pretty good shape (though it could still use a bit of clean-up here and there). So my work <span style="font-style: italic;">for now</span> is done. They are going to show it to some colleagues and get their feedback, and once they do, we'll move on to further revisions. Hopefully, they will soon begin looking for financing as well.<br /><br />So overall, it has been a good experience. I do like the script, and hope things move forward. At the same time, it feels good to be done with it for now, so I can work on a few other things. These include a revision of one of my previous spec scripts, and an attempt to quickly develop and write another spec idea I have. It is somewhat timely (a satire dealing with the American economy), but after discussing it, I think I'd be better off taking it out as a completed script than as a spec.<br /><br />I'll keep you all posted on all of these things as they develop. To my Jewish readers, Happy New Year! To everyone else, Happy Rest-of-2008!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tags:</span> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/screenwriting" target="_blank" rel="tag">screenwriting</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/safari" target="_blank" rel="tag">safari</a>Fun Joelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15864299581418165834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12998497.post-53276419663558678422008-10-03T21:36:00.000+03:002008-10-04T03:39:32.236+03:00Will I See You at the Expo?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.screenwritingexpo.com/" target="_blank"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr1Myc9_Ushjwj0AxNU4dJ_SRuyI5pEmvq_KHzt7Q7QJBtTgF6Jc_INWGWYi5Zq05iiZFNjoiEyBOQ8WPRZCgJx-2H414mJs2U7MzMkimtxHhH3U5ryy6OsctZiFOYABEOtxI0/s320/Expo+logo+08.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5252993664384363730" border="0" /></a>Just wanted to let you all know that I will, once again, be teaching at this year's <a href="http://screenwritingexpo.com/program/speaker_detail.php?speakerID=1046" target="_blank">Screenwriting Expo</a>. I'm happy to say that the Expo will be returning to the <a href="http://www.lacclink.com/" target="_blank">LA Convention Center</a> this year, after two (somewhat disappointing) years at a couple of hotels near LAX.<br /><br />I'm proud to have been invited back to present my best-attended seminar from last year, "<a href="http://screenwritingexpo.com/program/session_detail.php?sessionID=8036" target="_blank">Effective Use of Flashbacks and Voiceovers</a>." And I am also excited to be teaching a brand new, and timely seminar entitled "<a href="http://screenwritingexpo.com/program/session_detail.php?sessionID=8134" target="_blank">Writing in a Web 2.0 World</a>."<br /><br />In the latter seminar, I will be exploring what is unique about writing scripts for the web, as well as exploring the extensive opportunities to market yourself, network, and make money presented by <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Web_2.0" target="_blank">Web 2.0</a> technologies.<br /><br />I do not know whether speakers will be receiving discount codes, as we did in the past, but if so, I will certainly pass it along as soon as I receive it. And although the specifics are still to be determined, I will definitely be hosting my <a href="http://funjoel.blogspot.com/2007/10/3rd-annual-post-expo-scribosphere.html" target="_blank">annual post-Expo</a> <a href="http://funjoel.blogspot.com/2006/10/post-expo-scribosphere-gathering.html" target="_blank">Scribosphere</a> <a href="http://funjoel.blogspot.com/2005/11/official-expo-meet-up.html" target="_blank">Drinks gathering</a> on Sunday night. This has always been a highlight for me, and hope it is for others too. Stay tuned for more details!<br /><br />I hope to see many of you at the Expo this year! Be in touch.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">UPDATE: You can use the discount code HABER2008 to get 10% off your registration. Enjoy!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tags:</span> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/screenwriting" target="_blank" rel="tag">screenwriting</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Screenwriting+Expo" target="_blank" rel="tag">Screenwriting+Expo</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Web+2.0" target="_blank" rel="tag">Web+2.0</a>Fun Joelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15864299581418165834noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12998497.post-44725002587622675272008-09-17T08:26:00.000+03:002008-09-17T08:27:41.609+03:00Very Late on The Dark KnightSo, as I mentioned in my last post, I had a summer that was crazy busy. Not sure if I mentioned it then or not, but I did not see a single movie in the theaters the entire time I was back East. It simply was not possible. So I missed out on some major films that I wanted to see. So now that I'm back in town, I'm seeing movies with a vengeance. I've seen three in the last week, and I'm sure there's more to come soon!<br /><br />I may discuss those others soon enough, but I've wanted to see <span style="font-style: italic;">The Dark Knight</span> all summer, and finally got the chance to see it tonight. On IMAX, of course. Because as a friend of mine said, it is the <span style="font-style: italic;">only</span> way to see it. Well, not so sure about that, but it was damn cool.<br /><br />So anyway, I have not read any of the scuttlebutt floating about the Scribosphere or elsewhere regarding this film. So if I repeat anything that others have said, you can feel free to ignore it. But anyway, I definitely liked it a lot. Not sure whether I liked it more or less than <span style="font-style: italic;">Batman Begins</span>. This was simultaneously more focused, and more disjointed, with a relatively singular storyline, but plenty of mindfucks along the way. And I think that is a big part of building the film around the theme (which I will get to in a minute).<br /><br />It definitely seemed like a lighter (visually speaking) film, with much more taking place during the daytime, and a grounding in more familiar territory (hard to mistake the Chicago settings for anything else). And these changes, among others, are what made this a vastly distinct film than its predecessor, and yet at the same time, the characters were strong enough to ground us in the world of the previous film. For this the filmmakers are to be highly commended. Unlike many other sequels, particularly in the superhero genre, I felt as if this film moved significantly further from the first film than most, while still feeling like a part of the franchise.<br /><br />To me, the big thing about this film is its exploration of theme. I saw it as making a big political statement about the war on terror. To me this was a relatively blatant point, but my friend who I saw it with (not in the film world, so not necessarily thinking about films as actively and critically as I do -- probably a good thing, by the way) said she didn't even notice any of that. Of course, once I mentioned it, she totally saw it too. But to her it wasn't as in your face.<br /><br />So that being said, I'm not so sure how much I like the placement of this theme in this film. I like the Batman films for what they are -- good adventures with a major exploration of character. I'm not so sure I like it when they move from that into a critique of national politics. Just not sure I feel it is the "appropriate space" for it. I'm sure many would disagree and say that just the opposite is true -- there may be no better place. But that's just my opinion as a fan alone.<br /><br />So what did y'all think? Firstly, was I alone in seeing that message in there? And secondly, did you guys mind it?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tags:</span> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/screenwriting" target="_blank" rel="tag">screenwriting</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/The+Dark+Knight" target="_blank" rel="tag">The+Dark+Knight</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/theme" target="_blank" rel="tag">theme</a>Fun Joelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15864299581418165834noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12998497.post-10284005963828236822008-09-10T01:21:00.000+03:002008-09-10T02:11:29.525+03:00Rumors of this Blog's Death Have Been Greatly ExaggeratedOkay, so maybe not <span style="font-style: italic;">so</span> greatly. But somewhat exaggerated. Or maybe I'm just flattering myself and most of you have barely even noticed beyond a, "huh, I wonder whatever happened to <span style="font-style: italic;">that</span> guy." Well, whatever the case, I'm back, at least for now. And I hope to give you a bit of an update on what all I've been up to over the 2 1/2 months since I've last posted.<br /><br />I went to NJ for the summer (for just over two months) to help my parents with some stuff. And then after I planned my trip, something else came up with my parents that ended up eating up significantly more of my time than I had originally planned. No need to go into details. Suffice it to say, all is great with them and nothing to worry about. But it kept me busy all summer. And while I'm very glad I was able to be there for them when they needed me, I'm also very happy to be back home in L.A. now!<br /><br />Plus, there was time before and after those two months that were also eaten up, since i moved out of my apartment before I headed back East, and am in the process of moving into a new one here, now that I'm back. So while it was great being back there, it also cut into some of my free time for blogging, etc.<br /><br />At the same time, I have been moving forwards quite a bit with my safari script. I will aim to do a full update on that soon, but in the meantime I'll just give you the bare bones. I believe I had already turned in my first draft on the script before I left town. Since then I did two significant revisions of it, with some substantial changes along the way. Among other things I had to work in 3 more characters at the producers' requests, and made a number of other changes. Overall, I believe the script has gotten better and better, and I'm hoping that they believe it is good enough at this point to take out and start looking for financing. (They are currently making a short film, so they haven't had the chance to read and give me feedback yet.)<br /><br />So that, and continued reading work, is what has been eating up all of my time over the past few months. Now let me look ahead to the Fall.<br /><br />Regarding the blog itself, I hope to get back to blogging at least somewhat more regularly. One new feature I'm hoping to add in is a series of relevant interviews. I've realized that I have a number of other writer friends, some of whom have movies coming out soon, or have made other types of progress. So I thought it would be relevant and interesting to give a forum to them, either via interviews or "guest blog posts."<br /><br />I will be again teaching at the Screenwriting Expo this year, with one repeat class and one new one (they are having fewer classes overall this year, so I'm not able to do four again, like last year). In addition to continuing to work on the safari script as needed, I'm gearing up to do revisions on my D2DVD type horror script and/or <span style="font-style: italic;">Hell on Wheels</span>. And once I've completed that I intend to start looking for representation. I'll try to keep you all as updated as possible on that as well, since I hope my experiences on that front might also be interesting and helpful.<br /><br />Then, depending on how long it takes to get those done (it may be spilling over into Winter already by then), I have two ideas for my next spec script, and I'll have to choose between them. One I've been thinking about for a while, and it is a wedding-themed comedy, in the vein of <span style="font-style: italic;">My Best Friend's Wedding</span> or <span style="font-style: italic;">Monster-in-Law</span>. The other is a new idea that is still in the very early gestational phase of my thought process (little more than the kernel of an idea), but it is a timely and relevant satire about the American economy.<br /><br />Finally, I've begun the work on my new website that will be geared towards my Screenplay Services, but will also be the home of my new, migrated and redesigned blog. I still have a ways to go, but I've started, which is more than I've done before. So now I just need to find the time to finish it up!<br /><br />So, that's what's happened, and what I hope and plan will be happening! Far from dead, I hope. And please feel free to nudge me to ask things like, "Hey, how's the agent hunt coming along?" Or, "What's happening with the new website?" And for any of you who are still reading after two very long, nearly back-to-back absences, you have and deserve my thanks and respect!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tags:</span> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/screenwriting" target="_blank" rel="tag">screenwriting</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/blogging" target="_blank" rel="tag">blogging</a>Fun Joelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15864299581418165834noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12998497.post-51097697679655992632008-06-23T20:33:00.000+03:002008-06-23T20:37:09.924+03:00Take a Trip to GaytownSo as a follow-up to my last post, I checked out <a href="http://www.thewestside.tv/" target="_blank">The West Side</a>, as Cecil suggested in the comments. Not bad, and looks good visually, with a decent overall concept. The writing is adequate, though a bit slow-paced, and the acting is sporadic. But still, it is definitely a better web series than most that I've seen out there. I just wish they could find some sponsorship so they could pump out more episodes, instead of the extremely sporadic style of the current release.<br /><br />But I've continued talking to a lot of people about web series they liked. And this one came up the other day. Gaytown! It is generally quite funny, somewhat original, good writing, good comedic acting, and good production values. Here is episode one (the first season ran ten episodes, and you can watch them on you tube, or by going directly to the "network" that is airing them, <a href="http://www.crackle.com/" target="_blank">Crackle</a>.) I definitely plan to check out some of the other series on Crackle to see if they are equally good.<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/Ym3cEXIuE90&hl=en"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/Ym3cEXIuE90&hl=en" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />But looking at these two web series also made me think about the types of stuff that has gone up on the web. The West Side is essentially a single, longer story that has been split into shorter episodes, albeit with minor cliffhangers along the way. Still, it could easily have been made as a single short film. Gaytown, on the other hand, is significantly more episodic. And then you can think about a series like <a href="http://www.askaninja.com/" target="_blank">Ask a Ninja</a>, which is made up of completely stand-alone episodes. Sort of like <span style="font-style: italic;">Lost</span> vs. <span style="font-style: italic;">My Name is Earl</span> vs. <span style="font-style: italic;">South Park</span>.<br /><br />Anyway, please keep any suggestions you have coming! And same with ARGs, if any of you have any good suggestions on that front.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tags:</span> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/screenwriting" target="_blank" rel="tag">screenwriting</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/web+series" target="_blank" rel="tag">web+series</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Gaytown" target="_blank" rel="tag">Gaytown</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/The+West+Side" target="_blank" rel="tag">The+West+Side</a>Fun Joelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15864299581418165834noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12998497.post-50196982776207217932008-06-20T02:22:00.000+03:002008-06-20T22:31:34.059+03:00Digital StorytellingStill moving along with rewrites on the script, and with preparing for the move out of the apartment. So this will be a quick post.<br /><br />While my main focus remains on writing for film, I have been thinking for a while about writing for online productions. It had been in the back of my mind for a while (I even have considered turning <a href="http://funjoel.blogspot.com/2007/04/another-ending-in-sight.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-style: italic;">Hell on Wheels</span></a> into a flash-animated web series), and thought more about it after attending <a href="http://funjoel.blogspot.com/2008/01/strike-tv-boot-camp.html" target="_blank">this seminar</a>. And recently I've spoken to a number of people about such things as web series and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alternate_reality_game" target="_blank">Alternate Reality Games (ARGs)</a>.<br /><br />I'd be a fool if I didn't see these forms as at least part of the future of visual storytelling, and at the same time, not entirely different from what I do currently. And so I'm considering trying to do some writing in that arena as well.<br /><br />So, for those of you who are already quite familiar with such things, I'd love to hear your thoughts on writing for the digital, online world. What is the same or different? And if you have any favorite web series (as opposed to a single, stand-alone viral video that you love) or ARGs, I'd love to hear about them. What's the best out there?<br /><br />Leave your thoughts in the comments section, please!<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);">Update: A few hours after I posted this, I read <a href="http://what-fresh-hell-is-this.blogspot.com/2008/06/wanna-live-in-arg.html" target="_blank">THIS POST</a> on Kira's blog. Thought it tied in nicely!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tags:</span> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/writing" target="_blank" rel="tag">writing</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/web+series" target="_blank" rel="tag">web+series</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/ARG" target="_blank" rel="tag">ARG</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Alternate+Reality+Games" target="_blank" rel="tag">Alternate+Reality+Games</a>Fun Joelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15864299581418165834noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12998497.post-17286443088213795642008-06-15T20:01:00.000+03:002008-06-15T20:03:28.539+03:00A Trip to the Walk-InOver the years, I've put a <a href="http://funjoel.blogspot.com/2008/03/back-to-drive-in.html" target="_blank">few</a> <a href="http://funjoel.blogspot.com/2006/01/drive-in-memories.html" target="_blank">posts</a> up on here about Drive-Ins. This post is about Walk-Ins. Yes, I know that most movie theaters are walk-in theaters, but I'm talking about something specific here, so bear with me!<br /><br />Let me start by giving you an update on what's going on around these parts, since it relates. I am currently in rewrites on the Safari script, with my next draft due at the end of this month. So that's been keeping me somewhat busy. But I've also had even less time because I am moving out of my apartment at the end of the month. You see, for family reasons (all good, nothing bad) I have decided to head back East for July and August, then return to LA in September. So I'm moving out at the end of this month and putting my stuff into storage, and then will move into a new apartment when I get back out West in the Fall.<br /><br />I'm really looking forward to this. I'll be based in NJ at my parents' house for most of that time, but will certainly be getting into The City (NYC for those not in tune with the lingo) quite a bit. Now I love LA in the summer, and the weather in NYC during the summer can sometimes leave a little to be desired. <span style="font-style: italic;">But</span>, there is still something special about the energy of NYC during the hot months. One of the things I miss most about NYC in the summer is outdoor movies (mostly free). Summer in New York City offers tons of free cultural events, from bands (e.g. <a href="http://www.summerstage.org/" target="_blank">Summerstage</a>) to theater (e.g. <a href="http://www.publictheater.org/content/view/126/219/" target="_blank">Shakespeare in the Park</a>). But I've always most loved the outdoor movie screenings, because they are NYC's version of the drive-in theater. But since no-one drives there, they're really walk-in movies!<br /><br />The granddaddy of them all (at least to my knowledge) is the <a href="http://www.bryantpark.org/calendar/film-festival.php" target="_blank">Bryant Park movie series</a>. Sponsored by HBO, which has offices right across the street, this has become one of the most popular free events in New York during the summer. If I'm not mistaken, this series began in 1993, and I say that because it was my first summer after college, and I was working right down the block, at 42nd and Madison. So I seem to remember this starting out, and thinking what an awesome idea it was. To be honest, I'm not in love with this year's schedule (there are plenty of good movies on it, but not many of the fun kind of movies that people love to watch in big groups), but there are still some highlights. Here's that schedule, for Monday evenings (starts tomorrow night):<br /><br />June 16 Dr. No<br />June 23 Bride of Frankenstein<br />June 30 Hud<br />July 7 The Man Who Came to Dinner<br />July 14 Fail-Safe<br />July 21 Arsenic and Old Lace<br />July 28 The Apartment<br />Aug 4 Lifeboat<br />Aug 11 The Candidate<br />Aug 18 Superman<br /><br />One of the other good series is <a href="http://www.hudsonriverpark.org/events.asp" target="_blank">RiverFlicks, in Hudson River Park</a> (Pier 54 @ 14th St). This year's Wednesday night series for adults (there is also a series of kids movies) is music themed (and you know <a href="http://funjoel.blogspot.com/2006/02/movies-that-rock.html" target="_blank">how much I love music-themed movies</a>):<br /><br />July 9 La Bamba<br />July 16 Almost Famous<br />July 23 Purple Rain<br />July 30 Dream Girls<br />Aug 6 Saturday Night Fever<br />Aug 13 Rock Star<br />Aug 20 The Blues Brothers<br /><br />Also on the river, about 3 miles uptown from there, is <a href="http://nycgovparks.org/sub_things_to_do/events/output_pages/summer_on_the_hudson.php" target="_blank">Summer on the Hudson, free Movies Under the Stars</a> at Riverside Park South. Screenings will be held at Pier 1 @ 70th St. Unfortunately, this series is <span style="font-style: italic;">also</span> on Wednesday night. This year's theme is the election year for their series:<br /><br />July 9 Mr. Smith Goes to Washington<br />July 16 Wag the Dog<br />July 23 Election<br />July 30 The Candidate (in case you can't make it Aug 11 at Bryant Park)<br />Aug 6 The Manchurian Candidate (of course, the original one from 1962)<br />Aug 13 Primary Colors<br />Aug 20 All the President’s Men<br /><br />Finally, I have two other series that are new to me, though I'm sure they aren't that new. Both look really interesting, though. The first is <a href="http://www.brooklynbridgepark.org/index.cfm?objectid=EF670B44-3048-2C77-F20C2202337458ED" target="_blank">Movies with a View</a>, from the Brooklyn Bridge Park Conservancy. These Thursday screenings take place under the bridge, with the lower Manhattan skyline as a beautiful backdrop. Also launching slightly from the election concept, this series' theme is "change," interpreted in some fun ways! And it may be my favorite series of the bunch:<br /><br />July 10 Stand by Me<br />July 17 Invasion of the Body Snatchers (1956)<br />July 24 Wallace and Gromit: Curse of the Were Rabbit<br />July 31 Ace in the Hole<br />Aug 7 Pleasantville<br />Aug 14 Cabaret<br />Aug 21 Being There<br />Aug 28 The Shining<br /><br />Lastly, for indie film fans, check out <a href="http://www.rooftopfilms.com/" target="_blank">Rooftop Films</a>, from IFC. Only a few of these are free, but the prices for the ones you must pay for are completely fair, and you'll be supporting the art you love! A very interesting and eclectic schedule at a variety of locations. So I'll just link to <a href="http://rooftopfilms.bside.com/2008/schedule" target="_blank">the schedule</a> and let you browse. But it looks really cool, and well worth checking out. I recommend signing up for the email list so you don't have to dig through the schedule in advance.<br /><br />And for my LA peeps, Don't think I'm neglecting you. I'm sure that when I return in September, they will once again be holding the <a href="http://www.santamonicapier.org/smdi.html" target="_blank">Santa Monica Drive-In at the Pier</a> (that is last year's schedule)!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tags:</span> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/outdoor+movies" target="_blank" rel="tag">outdoor+movies</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/New+York+City" target="_blank" rel="tag">New+York+City</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/free" target="_blank" rel="tag">free</a>Fun Joelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15864299581418165834noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12998497.post-39568214632140151262008-06-02T22:42:00.000+03:002008-06-02T22:44:47.067+03:00For My TV-Writing FriendsJust got word of this contest from a friend, and it looks like a great one, plus one that may close very quickly. So get on this ASAP!<br /><br />The <a href="http://www.nytvf.com/2008_fox_info.htm#top" target="_blank">Fox-NYTVF Comedy Script Contest</a> begins today, and ends on June 13th, or when they receive 1500 entries. There is no entry fee, and the winner gets $25,000 and a development deal!<br /><br />Here is some relevant info direct from the site. Click through to get all other details.<br /><blockquote>The New York Television Festival and Fox Broadcasting Company have teamed up to offer aspiring TV writers the opportunity to win $25,000 and a development deal with FOX!<br /><br />Enter the FOX-NYTVF Comedy Script Contest and submit your script for an original half-hour comedy series. One winner will receive a development deal with the network and a $25,000 prize! Up to 25 finalists have the opportunity to earn a first-look deal with the network. Scripts must be entered by uploading them in a PDF format on the NYTVF upload page, which can be found <a href="http://nytvf.com/tixSYS/2008/competition/entryform.php" target="_blank">here</a> beginning June 2, 2008. The submission period will open at noon Eastern on June 2, 2008 and will close at 11:59 PM Eastern on June 13, 2008. All submissions must be uploaded during this time period, without exception. The contest will stop accepting entries when this period elapses or when the Festival receives 1,500 script entries, whichever comes first.</blockquote><br />Best of luck! I'd enter myself, if I wrote TV.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tags:</span> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/screenwriting" target="_blank" rel="tag">screenwriting</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/sitcom" target="_blank" rel="tag">sitcom</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/contest" target="_blank" rel="tag">contest</a>Fun Joelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15864299581418165834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12998497.post-77643707699957843442008-05-26T20:04:00.000+03:002008-05-26T20:06:43.429+03:00Happy Birthday to Me!Okay, not my <span style="font-style: italic;">actual</span> birthday. But yesterday was my third "bloggerversary!" Yep, I staked out this small, warm, welcoming piece of virtual real estate just over three years ago. It has had its ups and downs over the years, but I think this is a good point at which to look back, assess, report on things, and take stock. Think of it as a "State of the Blog Address."<br /><br />First of all, I must give a huge thank you to all of you for reading. Like the proverbial tree falling in the empty forest, this blog would be a worthless exercise in vanity and futility if it weren't for all of you (yes, I realize that ended up as a somewhat ineffectual mixed metaphor -- tough). So I honestly thank you from the depths of my heart, and hope that you enjoy, learn and most of all -- return!<br /><br />Let me get into some stats. In the three years since I began the blog, I have written 384 posts (this is my 385th). So I guess that averages out to approximately one every 2.85 days or so. Not too bad, considering the times when I've gone long periods without posting at all. Over that span of time, I've received somewhere above 130,000 pageloads, which is pretty cool in my book.<br /><br />What kinds of posts were they? many of these numbers will be approximate, based on how you define the categories. But I've written 51 posts that were reviews of movies, DVDs, or screenplays (e.g. my FFFJ posts), including 4 quasi-reviews in which I offer my opinions on films I haven't even seen! 60 posts address the craft of screenwriting while 65 focus on the business of film and screenwriting in particular. And 48 have focused on the specifics of my screenwriting -- the safari script, <span style="font-style: italic;">Hell on Wheels</span>, my effort at collaboration, my struggles with maintaining schedules, or my "process" in general. The other 160 posts I'd classify as miscellaneous. Writing-related memes, announcements about events of interest, links to blogs or other things around the web, 2 spoof fake news stories, etc.<br /><br />And what of those gaps in posting that I mentioned? At least 11 posts included an apology for not posting in a long time! The first year, I posted very regularly, with few gaps. I also posted far more times than either the second or third year. In year one, I published 237 posts. The second year saw me take a full-time job, which greatly affected my schedule and time to post (not to mention my exposure to screenplays and the number of ideas I had for posts). Thus, over the second year, I only posted 61 times. That year also saw my first extended gap in posting, nearly a month from mid August to mid September 2006. Two more 3-week gaps followed during the winter that followed.<br /><br />Year Three was better than Year Two. I posted 86 times (still not a ton), and also experienced 3 large gaps in posting. But at least two of them were what I would term more "acceptable." The first was a month long, in September/October, but that was while I was in Africa doing research for the script I was hired to write. And there was also a nearly 2 month long break that just recently ended, but that one was while I was deeply engrossed in actually writing the first draft of that script. So I consider both "excusable" and also beneficial since they gave me more knowledge about screenwriting, more experiences, and more insight -- all of which find their way into the blog itself. (The third gap of the year was about 3 weeks long in Dec/Jan. I was also traveling during that period, so it may be understandable, even if not screenwriting-related.)<br /><br />Year Three also saw a big step in the evolution of this blog. When I started the blog, I wanted to help people who were earlier in their career paths than I was. I saw that I was sort of "on the cusp" of advancing my career, and though there was definitely traction before then, this past year saw the first big step forward for me since then. I got an assignment to write a screenplay for an independent production company, and officially became a professional screenwriter. That development has added a new dimension to the types of posts I've written, with greater attention paid to the business and my experiences in this first pro gig. I truly hope they've been helpful and enlightening to some of you, and/or that they will be to future readers.<br /><br />I've always been proud to be one of the earlier members of the so-called Scribosphere -- the corner of the extended blogosphere to focus on screenwriting. I don't know exactly, but I'd guess I was among the first 10-20 members. Now there are well over 100, and possibly even 2-300 (or more). I've seen many wonderful blogs come, and unfortunately a few go as well (including some of those that I particularly enjoyed). I've always been honored by anyone who links to me (which is why I <span style="font-style: italic;">always</span> thank anyone who does, as soon as I notice the link), and have felt a certain amount of responsibility as one of those early adopters. It is for that reason that I feel a certain amount of guilt whenever my posting slows. Hence the exposition above about number of posts, and periods of non-posting.<br /><br />It is also the reason that I've kept my blog so focused, posting almost exclusively on screenwriting and film. I know that I might be able to get more hits if my blog had broader content. But I feel that the message would be watered down somewhat. Thus, I hope it is that focus that brings you, my core readers, back -- even after my long gaps in posting.<br /><br />So in the end, thank you all for reading over all these years. I was just talking last night to a few other screenwriting bloggers and marveled about all the wonderful people I met due to this blog. People I never would have met otherwise. To me, writing is about connecting with people and communicating with them. Just as I hope to do with my screenwriting, this blog allows me to do the same. I look forward to posting more Q&A posts in the future (I have 4 or 5 waiting to be answered), and furthering that connection in the year(s) ahead!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tags:</span> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/blogging" target="_blank" rel="tag">blogging</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/screenwriting" target="_blank" rel="tag">screenwriting</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/script+reading" target="_blank" rel="tag">script+reading</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Scribosphere" target="_blank" rel="tag">Scribosphere</a>Fun Joelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15864299581418165834noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12998497.post-20519270270838526912008-05-21T20:20:00.000+03:002008-05-21T20:23:15.847+03:00A Few Things I ForgotThere were a few things I wanted to include in recent posts, but forgot about when I wrote them. I'll blame it on the fact that during that two-month gap in posting, another birthday passed for me!<br /><br />Anyway... Firstly, in yesterday's post about my friends' projects, there was one other that I neglected to include, but meant to. My friend <a href="http://www.imdb.com/name/nm1016846/" target="_blank">Alisa Katz</a> spent the winter in Europe, as Associate Producer on <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1034303/" target="_blank"><span style="font-style: italic;">Defiance</span></a>, Ed Zwick's new film. The film has not yet been released, but its trailer has, and the film looks good. It is set during the Holocaust, but the story is different from any other Holocaust film. I wanted to let you all know about it, so you could go check out the <a href="http://www.apple.com/trailers/paramount_vantage/defiance/trailer/" target="_blank">trailer</a>!<br /><br />Also, in my post in which I updated the info on the Untitled Safari Picture, I wanted to talk about research briefly. I've done a ton of research on this project, and have learned a tremendous amount about various types of big game animals, their behavioral characteristics, etc. I've read many books, numerous articles (both academic and popular), and of course observed some things on my trip. But one of the key aspects to putting some puzzle pieces together was speaking to experts in the field.<br /><br />The reason I mention this here is that I wanted to underscore for some of you who have never tried it: speaking to experts is a <span style="font-style: italic;">very</span> good source of information. Most people are willing to and happy to speak to you about their work, at least briefly. I've done it multiple times on previous projects, and have spoken to true world leaders in their fields. Sometimes, if they were found locally, it cost me coffee or sushi, but then I got to meet them in person. More frequently, however, people were happy and kind enough to just answer some questions via email.<br /><br />Partially to indicate how easy and useful a research this is, partially to express my gratitude towards them, and partially to highlight (in a few cases) some worthwhile organizations, I want to list the people who helped me (to greater or lesser degree) with my research for this project. The film has ended up being largely (though not exclusively) focused on elephants, so all of these people are experts in some aspect of elephant behavior.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.bio.georgiasouthern.edu/bio-home/Schulte/Schulte-home.html" target="_blank">Dr. Bruce A. Schulte</a> - <a href="http://www.georgiasouthern.edu/" target="_blank">Georgia Southern University</a><br /><a href="http://www.wvc.org/content/?c=42&id=23&dc=n" target="_blank">Dr. James Peddie, D.V.M.</a><br /><a href="http://www.visionquestranch.com/html/meet_our_owner.html" target="_blank">Charlie Sammut</a> - <a href="http://www.visionquestranch.com/" target="_blank">Vision Quest Ranch</a>/<a href="http://www.elephantears.org/" target="_blank">EARS</a> (Elephants of Africa Rescue Society)<br /><a href="http://livingwithelephants.org/Herd/executive.htm" target="_blank">Julien Marchais/Sandi Groves</a> - <a href="http://www.livingwithelephants.org/" target="_blank">Living With Elephants</a><br />Dr. Julian T. Fennessy - <a href="http://www.iucn.org/themes/ssc/sgs/afesg/" target="_blank">AfESG/IUCN</a> (African Elephant Specialist Group/International Union for Conservation of Nature)<br />Dr. Loki Osborn - <a href="http://www.elephantpepper.org/" target="_blank">Elephant Pepper Development Trust</a><br /><a href="http://biology.ukzn.ac.za/staff/academic/rob-slotow.html" target="_blank">Prof. Rob Slotow</a> - <a href="http://www.ukzn.ac.za/" target="_blank">University of KwaZulu-Natal</a><br /><a href="http://www.makalaliresearch.co.za/who.htm" target="_blank">Audrey Delsink</a> - <a href="http://www.makalali.co.za/" target="_blank">Makalali Private Game Reserve</a><br /><a href="http://web.up.ac.za/default.asp?ipkCategoryID=237&subid=237#bertschinger" target="_blank">Prof. Henk Bertschinger</a> - <a href="http://web.up.ac.za/" target="_blank">University of Pretoria</a><br /><br />Let me also add that I didn't contact all of these people directly. Many of them referred me to others, or even CC'd another expert in their response to me. In particular, it was quite interesting for me to watch the last three on the list, as they passed my email between them, and each commented on a different bit of the question I asked them. It was like I was sitting in a room surrounded by some experts, listening to them have a conversation.<br /><br />I'll also add that there were other people I sent emails to who never responded. So be it. If that happens to you, don't be discouraged. Just find others.<br /><br />Anyhow, thanks to all the experts who helped me. Your help was immense, and contributed significant background material to the development of this screenplay.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tags:</span> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/screenwriting" target="_blank" rel="tag">screenwriting</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/research" target="_blank" rel="tag">research</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/elephants" target="_blank" rel="tag">elephants</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Defiance" target="_blank" rel="tag">Defiance</a>Fun Joelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15864299581418165834noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12998497.post-42582769605743658152008-05-21T04:37:00.000+03:002008-05-21T04:39:07.887+03:00The Miracles of BirthI am, of course, referring to the metaphorical births of various creative works. But they are miraculous births nonetheless. Thus, in this post, I'd like to highlight a few projects that have recently been released into the world by some friends of mine. I hope you'll check them out!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoevhDH9TNyN5tuqWvETJxBDymWZLyHjlXrCAJj7Z9BDG1v0g5mem3YOLfbL7qcjqEq-9KkIcYlxxpkgz53HaIpBkpNm6rk7YrsKBIEUY1DMPaq10Jr2x097e5ckgVIqhjhogd/s1600-h/o5mzkpfymgy543hdf3s3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoevhDH9TNyN5tuqWvETJxBDymWZLyHjlXrCAJj7Z9BDG1v0g5mem3YOLfbL7qcjqEq-9KkIcYlxxpkgz53HaIpBkpNm6rk7YrsKBIEUY1DMPaq10Jr2x097e5ckgVIqhjhogd/s200/o5mzkpfymgy543hdf3s3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5202628370995315906" border="0" /></a>First off, my buddy <a href="http://www.nickweiss.com/" target="_blank">Nick Weiss</a> has just seen the DVD release of his directorial debut, the teen comedy <span style="font-style: italic;">Senior Skip Day</span>. It stars a couple of actors I really like (though I won't tell you which of these they are). Still, they are: Tara Reid, Lea Thompson, Norm MacDonald, Gary Lundy, and Larry Miller.<br /><br />Buy it at Amazon <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html?ie=UTF8&location=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FSenior-Skip-Unrated-Clint-Howard%2Fdp%2FB00132D7TA%2F&tag=funjoel-20&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=9325" target="_blank">HERE</a>. Add to your queue at Netflix <a href="http://www.netflix.com/Movie/Senior_Skip_Day/70095096" target="_blank">HERE</a> or Blockbuster Online <a href="http://www.blockbuster.com/catalog/movieDetails/390175" target="_blank">HERE</a>. Or just go pick it up at Best Buy!<br /><br />And if you want a taste of his comedic sense, check out a short Nick directed, <a href="http://www.funnyordie.com/videos/5aaf107c28" target="_blank"><span style="font-style: italic;">The Cat and the Blanket</span></a>, over at Funny or Die.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWa2YYM3K_3WqjQqkUrrIu3v80tkfCjcIpx3duXVPAwtHx44LdvLp4OSNiix9xIq5X0eU56ibidumwHVrECCDF_yahD7qJwwEWDWjB1dVqXXHHSwaq9basFaaJAqvwVvy4UTKo/s1600-h/Cut_Up__Site_P1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWa2YYM3K_3WqjQqkUrrIu3v80tkfCjcIpx3duXVPAwtHx44LdvLp4OSNiix9xIq5X0eU56ibidumwHVrECCDF_yahD7qJwwEWDWjB1dVqXXHHSwaq9basFaaJAqvwVvy4UTKo/s200/Cut_Up__Site_P1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5202632910775747794" border="0" /></a>Next, you're all (no doubt) familiar with the concept of the musical "mashup," yes? When someone deftly mixes and blends two songs together to make a single song that cleverly juxtaposes the originals? Well, my good friend <a href="http://www.pauldavidson.net/" target="_blank">Paul Davidson</a> has recently started a website of video mashups -- both TV and film. Some very funny and clever little things in there. And hopefully the start of something great!<br /><br />Please do check out <a href="http://www.cutuptv.com/" target="_blank">CutUpTV.com</a>, and forward the YouTube clips on to your friends!<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgavMsZz4j0Ylrh6d98Syd1EC-AbNpuhXbBofHLPa4-6RjmI3CWJDAuLgK5aYuT9I2XApc1VOFOU_tjJqcwqzz0QLYhbq9cOzzDkoI5BAFzTd07dhyJbEV4p7b748AGSsQpbU25/s1600-h/6a00d8341c7f0d53ef00e551e6e8b18834-800wi.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgavMsZz4j0Ylrh6d98Syd1EC-AbNpuhXbBofHLPa4-6RjmI3CWJDAuLgK5aYuT9I2XApc1VOFOU_tjJqcwqzz0QLYhbq9cOzzDkoI5BAFzTd07dhyJbEV4p7b748AGSsQpbU25/s200/6a00d8341c7f0d53ef00e551e6e8b18834-800wi.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5202636003152200930" border="0" /></a><br />Lastly, most of you readers of various blogs in the Scribosphere already know of and/or read Billy Mernit's excellent blog, <a href="http://livingromcom.typepad.com/" target="_blank">Living the Romantic Comedy</a>. But if you don't already, you might not know about his debut novel, <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html?ie=UTF8&location=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FImagine-Me-You-Billy-Mernit%2Fdp%2F0307395375%3Fie%3DUTF8%26s%3Dbooks%26qid%3D1211333352%26sr%3D8-2&tag=funjoel-20&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=9325" target="_blank"><span style="font-style: italic;">Imagine Me and You</span></a>. I have not read it yet, but it sounds entertaining, romantic, and cleverly mind-bending -- in the vein of <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/redirect.html?ie=UTF8&location=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FStranger-Than-Fiction-Will-Ferrell%2Fdp%2FB000LXH0AE%2F&tag=funjoel-20&linkCode=ur2&camp=1789&creative=9325" target="_blank"><span style="font-style: italic;">Stranger than Fiction</span></a>.<br /><br /><br />Congrats to all on their respective births. Guys, let me know if you need a babysitter, but please don't ask me to change any diapers!<br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tags:</span> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Senior+Skip+Day" target="_blank" rel="tag">Senior+Skip+Day</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Nick+Weiss" target="_blank" rel="tag">Nick+Weiss</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/CutUpTV" target="_blank" rel="tag">CutUpTV</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Paul+Davidson" target="_blank" rel="tag">Paul+Davidson</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Imagine+Me+and+You" target="_blank" rel="tag">Imagine+Me+and+You</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Billy+Mernit" target="_blank" rel="tag">Billy+Mernit</a>Fun Joelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15864299581418165834noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12998497.post-51356500435128820612008-05-16T03:17:00.000+03:002008-05-16T03:19:20.816+03:00I Just Saw Iron Man......and really enjoyed it.<br /><br />That being said, I just have one question. How is it that a movie that was as formulaic -- down to every last detail and plot point -- as <span style="font-style: italic;">Iron Man</span> was, was still such a damned enjoyable flick? Your thoughts?<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Minor Spoilers (both for <span style="font-style: italic;">Iron Man</span> and <span style="font-style: italic;">Hulk</span>):</span><br /><br />Okay, I guess I have a second question as well. One of the trailers before <span style="font-style: italic;">Iron Man</span> was for the upcoming Hulk movie. Not great buzz on this movie yet. But I have to wonder if it was wise to show that trailer before this one, when the core element of the plot -- revealed in the trailer -- was virtually identical to that of <span style="font-style: italic;">Iron Man</span>. The villain takes the technology of the hero and creates a bigger, uglier and presumably more powerful version of the hero. Iron Man vs. Obidaiah (sp?). Hulk vs. Tim Roth's monstrous persona.<br /><br />Even if the rest of the film is different, is it wise to show a trailer showcasing that key plot point before a movie from the same studio that uses an almost identical plot point? Rather than building interest for this troubled picture, I think it is merely hammering in a nail. Your thoughts on this as well...<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tags:</span> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/movies" target="_blank" rel="tag">movies</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/movie+trailers" target="_blank" rel="tag">movie+trailers</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/Iron+Man" target="_blank" rel="tag">Iron+Man</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/The+Hulk" target="_blank" rel="tag">The+Hulk</a>Fun Joelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15864299581418165834noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12998497.post-39956071673886213232008-05-15T04:07:00.000+03:002008-05-15T04:11:02.028+03:00Safari Picture Update #7<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNcNGL-V67L2H329pDVMOBC_NqrO04n405qgE6Bi-XI-GY4-r4UQtBrCEPcaWchq0jE5SVb2anNcvp2vzDqGDKQHJWWwAFSCFxkR3vGRd14ruS6KAFdwoiN8S-kqByIn3FH6WB/s1600-h/Levi_pics+%2890%29.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNcNGL-V67L2H329pDVMOBC_NqrO04n405qgE6Bi-XI-GY4-r4UQtBrCEPcaWchq0jE5SVb2anNcvp2vzDqGDKQHJWWwAFSCFxkR3vGRd14ruS6KAFdwoiN8S-kqByIn3FH6WB/s200/Levi_pics+%2890%29.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5200387209815622818" border="0" /></a>The time has come for my <span style="font-style: italic;">long overdue</span> update on the <a href="http://funjoel.blogspot.com/2007/10/safari-picture-update-6.html" target="_blank">Untitled Safari Picture</a>. For starters, I have come up with a working title, as well as a few alternate titles, but since none of them really rock my world, I'm going to still refer to it herein as the Untitled Safari Picture.<br /><br />So, to catch up, the last real update got us up to the point of when I had returned from my research trip in Africa. I didn't do much updating again until <a href="http://funjoel.blogspot.com/2008/02/off-trapeze.html" target="_blank">THIS POST</a>, in which I discussed (albeit vaguely) some of the changes that were taking place, and how they made me somewhat nervous. Let me start by filling in some gaps, and then move up to now.<br /><br />Before we went to Africa, I did a treatment of the script (actually a few drafts of the treatment), as you may recall. The original idea was that we'd go down to Africa, and there might be some minor changes, but that I'd basically start writing the script when we got back. However, once we got back, the changes that we discussed were much more fundamental, and the story was changing more significantly. Thus, I started reworking the treatment to try and get it to a point that we all liked it, before starting the actual writing.<br /><br />During that process, I hit a few story roadblocks that I couldn't find ways around, which slowed me down tremendously. The producers and I finally had a long phone meeting, and thrashed some of those issues out, and I came back to them with a newly revised treatment, which I thought was very good. They did not agree, which threw a lot of stress on me. In retrospect, I believe that a big part of this may have simply been a lack of communication, with they and I speaking a slightly different language. I think that I gave them what they were looking for, but they didn't recognize it as such because it wasn't necessarily in the form that they expected or wanted.<br /><br />At that point, there was a lot of frustration and stress on all of our parts. We knew we had to keep the process moving, but things weren't looking good. I was convinced that what I had given them was good, however, so we decided that instead of continually going back and forth with the treatment, I would move on and write the first draft of the script. We would then go back and forth with that instead. Simultaneously, we revised some of our deal points. That's about the time that I wrote the "trapeze" post (with apologies again to my dear friend <a href="http://www.montanamiller.com/photo-gallery.htm" target="_blank">Montana</a>). I wasn't pleased with changing the deal points, but I also recognized that it was necessary to do so in order to keep the project moving and for me to stay involved with it. Even though I saw it as them likely getting extra work out of me for the same price, I accepted it as the best option for me overall.<br /><br />[<span style="font-style: italic;">This will be a good time for a brief interlude to mention two things. Firstly, my worries about the script reading work have also proven unnecessary, as I've picked up plenty more, and even am still reading for both Walden and New Line. So things are fine on that front.<br /><br />Also, since this post does bare some of the ugly speed bumps I've run across in this process, I wanted to reiterate why I'm writing this at all. As I said in my very first post, the absolute main reason I started this blog was so that my experiences might help others. I wrote:<br /><br />"[I]t is my sincere hope that this blog might be enlightening to beginning or developing screenwriters. I am first now getting to the point in my career that I'm really trying to establish myself as a professional screenwriter, and I'm hoping that by blogging about the ups and downs that I experience along the way, this might serve as some kind of guide for those who follow."<br /><br />While my experiences working on this picture have certainly been unique to me, I'm certain they are at least somewhat representative of what many people go through as their careers slowly develop. I hope that by writing about these experiences, others might be better equipped to handle similar situations when they come upon them.</span>]<br /><br />Anyhow, following that revised plan, I basically had about two months to deliver my first draft to the producers. (I should add that the two months was a period I gave the producers, not one they forced upon me.) Those two months got off to a slightly slower start than I would've liked, since I still had a few details to finish researching. But I did finally get moving on the writing itself. As the period wore on, I got more and more into a groove (though at many times I found myself procrastinating much more than I should have). In time, the fist draft was finally taking shape.<br /><br />I had made a pretty detailed outline for myself, and was working off of that to maximize my time efficiency. And as the draft grew, I got more into the minds of my characters. I stuck very strictly to a rule that I highly recommend to anyone (especially chronic procrastinators, such as myself), which is to not do any revisions while writing. Give yourself permission to have a flawed first draft that is fully complete, knowing that you're going to be revising it. As I recently told a friend who was getting stuck on page 50-something of her script, you can <span style="font-style: italic;">never</span> finish a script without first finishing the first draft. The flip side is that you <span style="font-style: italic;">can</span> finish a script when you have a complete draft, even if it is weak. Writing is rewriting. So I basically forced myself to push straight through to the end, barely touching anything I had already written, and filing away all the changes I knew I'd want to make. I call this a "vomit draft," because that's what it is -- a draft that you are just spewing forth quickly. (Beautiful image, eh?)<br /><br />So I was pretty much done with my vomit draft when the deadline was approaching. But I knew I wanted to clean it up and revise a bit, so that I could turn the vomit draft into a true first draft. So I sent the producers an email. I told them that I <span style="font-style: italic;">could</span> deliver the script on deadline day, as promised, but that if they gave me just one more week it would be much better. In my mind, I much preferred to send them a cleaned up first draft, rather than a complete but very rough vomit draft. They did not seem pleased at all, but they did agree to give me the extra week. Thankfully.<br /><br />So, last Thursday I finally delivered a true First Draft of the Untitled Safari Picture. It was still a <span style="font-style: italic;">bit</span> rough around the edges (including being about 7-12 pages longer than I want the final product to be), but overall, it was a solid first effort, and much improved over the pure vomit draft. I was pleased with it, but also somewhat wary, since I had no idea whether or not the producers would like it. After that initial tension due to the lack of communication, I really just didn't know what to expect here. But, in typical Fun Joel fashion, I looked at it all with equanimity. Whatever happened, either way, would be fine with me. Obviously I wanted to continue working on the project, but if I ended up getting replaced, I'd accept that. I had had a great opportunity and learning experience, plus I got paid, and even was lucky enough to have the trip to Africa.<br /><br />In the end, however, I had nothing to be worried about. That same miscommunication that made me wary, is also (I think) what made the producers tell me they were "pleasantly surprised" by the script. I told them I was glad they liked, but sorry they were surprised! In brief, we all recognized that there is still plenty of work to be done, but that this was a solid first effort, and a good start. In a phone meeting on Monday, they gave me their notes (which are generally helpful). I'm also getting some feedback from a few trusted readers, and will be doing my own review as well. I told them I wanted a <span style="font-style: italic;">short </span>break to let it breathe, but that I want to keep this ball moving as quickly as possible. By the end of this week I'm going to get back to them to discuss a timetable for the next revision.<br /><br />So, all in all, that's that and thinks are looking good for now. On to the next step, and as always I'm taking everything one step at a time.<br /><br />Until next time... Have Fun!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Tags:</span> <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/screenwriting" target="_blank" rel="tag">screenwriting</a>, <a href="http://technorati.com/tag/safari" target="_blank" rel="tag">safari</a>Fun Joelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15864299581418165834noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12998497.post-12976980364838430342008-05-14T01:59:00.000+03:002008-05-14T02:01:50.771+03:00What's Going OnJust a brief post to explain where I've been the last nearly 2 months!<br /><br />In short, I was on deadline with the safari script, and writing away, not leaving me much time to do much outside of work. So I apologize for the long radio silence.<br /><br />I'm now coming up for air, and trying to take care of all those things that have fallen through the cracks over the last couple of months, and of course this blog is one of them. So look for a number of posts over the near future, and then a hopeful return to a more regular blogging schedule.<br /><br />First up, I'll give you the next update on the safari picture. Among other things after that, I want to spread the word about a number of projects that friends of mine are involved in. I also received some questions via email, which I intend to answer on here (and by the way, you can always feel free to send me questions as well). And I'll also likely throw up a review of Stephanie Palmer's new book, <span style="font-style: italic;">Good in a Room</span>.<br /><br />So now you know where I've been and what you can hopefully look forward to. That, my friends, is what's going on!Fun Joelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15864299581418165834noreply@blogger.com1