Screenwriting

Embarking on the journey of becoming a successful screenwriter involves delving into the intricacies of storytelling at various levels. From the cosmic truths that shape narratives to the communal values inherent in cultures, and the quest for purpose within characters' lives, the 9 Levels of Story offer a framework for aspiring creatives. To help you understand these levels better, I'll be discussing them over the next few weeks in a 3-part blog series. By better understanding cosmic, culture...

I recently uploaded my 85th feature script onto my loglines page on Stage 32. In a subsequent exchange of comments, RB suggested that I write a blog about how I develop my ideas for scripts. My kneejerk response was, “That’s easy. For me, it’s like making popcorn." Below are the four elements I consider when selecting script topics. With a recent example of the four elements at work from my most recent script.   1) Stay True To Your Core Values   Oscar Wilde may have said, “Be yourself; e...

Happy Sunday, Creative Army! Have you had a creative weekend so far? I have some content here for you that is sure to get the creative juices flowing, so grab your coffee, and let's dive in. First up, in this video from the Writers Guild Foundation, acclaimed showrunner Glen Mazzara (THE ROCKIE, THE DARK TOWER) discusses the challenges of being a screenwriter, advice for new writers, and the importance of including fun in a spec script. It's great insight into what a showrunner looks for whe...

Many of you are likely aware of the book, The Writer’s Journey by Christopher Vogler. You might also be aware that it’s based on the writings of Joseph Campbell and it applies Campbell’s ideas on the Hero’s Journey to cinema in general and screenwriting specifically. Many of you may have even read Vogler’s book or Cambell’s writings, or both. But did you know that The Writer’s Journey started as an internal memo at Walt Disney Animation Studios while developing The Little Mermaid and Beauty and...

To wrap up my recent blog series on understanding script analysis and coverage, I'm delving into the inner workings of the recommendation process and exploring the factors that industry professionals consider when deciding which scripts to recommend. From the potential impact of a positive script recommendation on a writer's future in the industry to the significance of script grading as a deciding factor for acceptance or rejection, I aim to provide new screenwriters with a comprehensive unders...

I'll admit, I was a bit skeptical of Stage 32 at first. But I figured, why not? I've tried pretty much everything else. Joining Stage 32 ended up being a game-changer for my career. It wasn't like anything I'd experienced before. For once, people were reading my work not because they had to judge it for a competition, but because they were genuinely interested. The feedback I got from industry pros was eye-opening and, honestly, exactly what I needed. My screenwriting journey has been quite an...

Hey, Stage 32 Community! The best comedy TV shows seamlessly blend clever scenarios, relatable characters, and impeccable timing to consistently deliver laughter and resonate with audiences. Classic network comedies like THE SIMPSONS or IT'S ALWAYS SUNNY IN PHILADELPHIA are some of the most watched shows by fans new and old, both live and on streaming. Current shows like ABBOTT ELEMENTARY and TED LASSO have fans waiting on the edge of their couches for a new season. Aud...

Happy Sunday, Creative Army! Have you had a creative weekend so far? I have some content here for you that is sure to get the creative juices flowing, so grab your coffee, and let's dive in. First up, in this video from Fandango, star and director of MONKEY MAN, Dev Patel, sits down with actor, director, and producer Jordan Peeling to discuss their different directing styles. MONKEY MAN is the first feature film that Patel has directed and Peele's production company, Monkey Paw, was behind t...

We all need a little help, every now and then. One of the greatest things about being a writer is that there are so many tools out there designed to help us. The problem is, people don’t know they exist. When you’re a writer, you have to be a Jack (or Jill) of many trades and learn not just about writing, but about editing, and the business itself. It’s all part of honing our craft. And while, at times, the task may seem daunting, I’ve discovered a lot of online resources that I’ve found to...

As a new screenwriter ready to submit your script for coverage, it is essential to thoroughly proofread, edit, and scrutinize your work to ensure its success. In this comprehensive guide, I will provide you with a general checklist of 10 essential tips that will empower and inspire you to confidently refine your script. From examining the structure and flow of your story to reviewing dialogue and character development, these tips will hopefully help you take your script to the next level and inc...