Helping Screenwriters

Biggest thing this month is being in Tucson, AZ, to present Basic Screenwriting to a Writers Group. I've done this in the past, so it will be an exciting, renewed level of instruction for me. This group consists of Christian writers, but the basics of screenwriting remain the same, no matter the theme -- normally. We'll see. I will center much of my presentation on "Formatting." In other words, concentrate on the story for the reader. Many new screenwriters attempt to tell their story through Camera Angles, Cut To's, Fades, and such, instead of progressing the story for the reader. Most new screenwriters are doing spec scripts, so all of that gobbledy-gook is boring, and is not storytelling. Shooting Scripts contain that information, usually compiled by the Director, Cinematographer, Producer(s), and others who have familiarized themselves with the story, the scene, the location, and (ultimately) the cost. Much to learn. Stick to writing the story, not the directions.

Logan's Run/Oceans Eleven

I just Googled George Clayton Johnson, a revered short story writer. What an accomplished writer he is. I spent some of my most interesting time of my life with George probably in 1988, or so. He spoke to a very small group of writers who met at Warner Bros. studio at the time. We had been kicked out of NBC on Alameda Bl, in Burbank, because NBC initially thought we were all NBC employees in our writing group. That's how we got the name Alameda Writers Group, referred to as AWG. Look 'em up. A large group of very talented writers today. Anyway, George does not (or did not at the time) drive an automobile, so I picked him up at his home in Sunland on my way to the meeting. What a wonderful time. He spoke to us about writing. He didn't tout himself. No need to. He knows the subject. And what a background. He was a telegraph operator in the Army; I was a telegraph operator, too - for the Union Pacific Railroad in Nebraska. George wrote the first episode for the Star Trek TV series. He wrote a number of tales for The Twilight Zone TV series, and one of his stories was used in the movie. Why did I Google him today? Because I wanted to know what he's doing today. Also, I have an answer for one of the questions he asked me almost 30 years ago: Which is faster - Light or Dark? It took me 20 years to come up with an answer.

Nailing Oscar Nominations

Okay, in August of 2009 I nailed two films for Oscar nominations. Bruce, I rest my case.

Pretty Ugly People

This film was recommended to me by Del Shores. What a production! The theme centers on the reactions of each of a group of college friends who attend an "end of life" celebration. The cinematography is excellent because of the remote location, in the mountains, two or more hours from civilization. The characters' arcs are fully described and allowed to develop on the screen. Each of the characters work their way through decision-making crises that many of us might face in our own lives. Tate's use of humor, drama, sadness, and fear create moment-by-moment emotions as we witness solutions to the problems they face. I had the good fortune to spend some time with the director/writer/producer, Tate, during happy hour at the theater restaurant -- he was waiting for a Q&A session following the evening showing. What a tremendously talented guy. $700K to get it in the can and on some screens. I hope he breaks the nut. He also revealed that he acquired the rights to Kathryn Stockett's bestselling novel "The Help" and will soon begin shooting the film, hoping to release it in December 2010. At times, "Pretty Ugly People" gave him daunting challenges, because of the remote location and the fact that some of the cast were working in TV projects while the film was being shot. For example, a cast member was scheduled to shoot but was called back to "town" for work. Tate spent all night rewriting tomorrow's shoot. It all worked out, but I know what a chore that must have been. I was surprised by a question from him regarding a pivotal moment near the end. He was pleased that I agreed with his decision to keep the scene, rather than to give in to less violent action. He deserves all the kudos that were delivered by the audience during his Q&A. What a gracious gentleman.

The Hurt Locker

When a woman is involved in the direction and control of a war film, I must go see it. This film is particularly noteworthy because of its cinematography and the presentation of the story. The screenplay is magnificent, the character arcs are incredibly believable, and the acting is outstanding. When is the last time you saw a positive movie about our military in Iraq or Afghanistan? So many others have denigrated the soldiers, depicting them as mass murderers and torturers. (That's why you'll not see comments in my blogs about films at that level.) The Hurt Locker just might get some nominations, at least, for Academy Awards. It doesn't matter. It's well worth seeing, no matter what your feelings about today's political climate and your position on the ongoing wars.

Julie & Julia

My wife and I decided to see this film on opening day. What a surprise... the theater seats were almost totally filled. Age groups from 20's to 80's. It's a good feeling to see such success for a film like this. Meryl Streep does outstanding work in it. Everything from the physical mannerisms to the speech patterns of Julia Childs is spot on. Nora Ephron did a magnificent job with the screenplay and direction. Who would have thought that a story like this could ever be presented with drama? Well, she did. The cinematographer was able to frame shots that hid the means to depict Julia's six feet two inch height. You'll see what I mean when you see it. I can not say enough about the total ensemble of professionals who put this enjoyable movie on the "silver screen." I won't write a review, because there are already sufficient kudos presented by critics in the printed media, as well as the digital. Go see this film. You will certainly agree with me that it will garner some Academy Award nominations in many categories.

My Latest Project

Okay, so it's not new, but it is my Latest exciting Project. When Bruce didn't hire me as a reviewer of local theater productions for the local paper, I decided, "Why not write something for him (or the salaried person he's taken on) to review?" He won't come to the play, because I doubt that he's a golfer. I've seen him, and... well, never mind... that's not what this posting is about. My latest project is a stage play about golf. Yeah, I know, you're asking: Will that work? Sure, it will. You ask: "Will the actors be swinging golf clubs?" Sure. "Aren't you putting the audience in danger?" you ask. My answer: Their only danger is if they paid for their tickets with the last of their milk and cookie money for the month. Hey! Can't they attend at the end of the month and go without cookies and milk for a day or two? Come on. My play about bowling was successful. Didn't you see "Doubles?" Lots of laughs and much applause. I wrote a screenplay around it, too, and we did begin filming it, but -- Blah! Didn't work. I knew better. I should have paid attention to the early movies that simply filmed a production of a stage play. Ever see one of those? Yeccch! My Latest Project is called "Foursomes." So far, it's funny on paper, but I haven't yet heard applause. Maybe in a few months I can hold some cold readings and see how it's working. Maybe at least one (or maybe all) of the actors will clap -- at least in appreciation. Maybe.

Four Christmases - The Movie

Wife and I went today. I didn't want to waste my time with another Holiday movie. I thought they can't be improved upon after National Lampoon's "Christmas Vacation." WRONG! It's been a long time since I've laughed aloud during a movie (while in the theater). "Four Christmases" is so funny, I was practically rolling in the aisle. Vince Vaughn is an excellent comic. His line delivery and demeanor is so attractive that I can not take my eyes off his work. Reese Witherspoon is also good. I've seen her in more dramatic roles than comedy, but this one tops her charts. Dwight Yoakam and Tim McGraw are unidentifiable, but great in their roles. Of course, Robert Duvall always gives you the most you can get. Carrie Snodgress does well in a role stretch. Mustn't overlook Jon Voight's poignant character, either. Every character in this movie was a gem. This movie is so entertaining, it's going to be a "Holiday" movie for years to come. I'm putting "Christmas Vacation" aside, and will purchase the "Four Christmases" DVD when available. Want a good laugh? Come over next year and watch it with me.

An American Carol

A brilliant comedy that will be loved by those who love America, be hated by those who hate America, and will not be understood by those who ignore the damage being done to this great country by liberal, fascist thought. Zucker will catch hell for making this wonderful satire centered on Michael “Cheeseburger” Moore’s idiotic pseudo-documentaries. None of the moronic personalities who are part of his flock will even recognize the parodies made of them. I commend the brave souls who signed on to this hilarious outing – Kevin Farley, Tracy Adkins, Kelsey Grammer, Jon Voight, Leslie Nielson… undying patriots all. The Islamic fascists are portrayed to a “T.” Loved them for treating their roles seriously. Kevin is as good as Chris ever was – his casting was genius. Jon Voight’s George Washington is moving. Grammer’s Patton is refreshingly to the point. And Tracy… what can one say? He sings Charley’s patriotic song with a country passion – and he’s a damn good actor, too. Leslie Nielson tells the tale well, as he always does. And the kids, too, are true to form. Zounds! Why aren’t more films like this being made? I’m going to see it again on the big screen before it gets shut down. Can’t wait for the DVD to come out so I can watch it on election night. (Bruce: Eat your heart out.)