Read the transcript below or on the Storify site.
Edit
Ray Morton #Scriptchat Transcript - July 26, 2015
Tonight we chatted with professional script reader and author Ray Morton @RayMorton1 about tips to make your script standout. Enjoy! @jeannevb
IT’s #SCRIPTCHAT O’CLOCK with pro script reader @RayMorton1. Join in! Best site to chat here: http://www.tchat.io/rooms/scriptchat …
#scriptchat nothing that was test tweet ;)
@blueneumann Hey Chris! :) *waves* #scriptchat- @writeranthonydp Aww. Good to know! :) #scriptchat
#scriptchat Hi Chris and all.- @RayMorton1 Hello Ray and welcome! *waves* Great to have you here #scriptchat
Good evening, Ray. May we call you Ray? #scriptchat- @RayMorton1 so excited to have you here, Ray! #scriptchat
Yes you may #scriptchat
hello everyone! #scriptchat- @47young1 Hey Jen! *hugs* *waves* #scriptchat
- @tjbalfe Hey Tom! *waves* #scriptchat
- @DanOBannonBook Hey, Matt! Great to see you here. #scriptchat
- Thanks, Jeanne. Happy to be here #scriptchat
Hello all you happy people. #scriptchat- hey Chris! :) #scriptchat
- @Al_1701 :) Hey David! *waves* #scriptchat
- @tjbalfe Hey how are you? #scriptchat
- So for those who don't know @RayMorton1, he's a pro script reader & a contributor for @scriptmag forever. Well, close to it. #scriptchat
- That's about right. : ) #scriptchat
- What gripping subject do we have on #scriptchat tonight?
- So all those questions you have for script readers & how to get past them, shoot @RayMorton1's way. #scriptchat
- @filmwritr4 *waves back* #scriptchat
- #scriptchat I like your tweets ray.
- @sarah: most common: dramatize everything! #scriptchat
@RayMorton1 Q: what do you keep hoping to see in a script but never do? #scriptchat- Too many new writers write out exposition as in a novel #scriptchat
- @RayMorton Q: can you tell by page 10 if you're going to like a script most of the time? #scriptchat
- @chris H: Can you clarify? What do you mean by "approach"? #scriptchat
- @RayMorton1 Ray grumbled as he typed that response, recalling nights spent poring over needless paragraphs of description #scriptchat
- so many questions, lots of typing #scriptchat
- @Tom. Maybe not by page 10, but usually pretty early on #scriptchat
- @RayMorton1 By approach, I mean, what are some of the typical ways/tips you give writers on how they can work on rewriting? #scriptchat
@RayMorton1 I've heard that 2 lines of description and then a break are now the standard. Is that true? #scriptchat- @ray I'm reading The Imitation Game and I'm enjoying its so much I nearly forgot to join scriptchat #scriptchat
- @sarah: What hooks me is some interesting or exciting event or a character doing something compelling or offbeat #scriptchat
- @sarah: Something that makes me want to know what happens next #scriptchat
- @chris H: I usually try to determine what the intent of the writer was in creating this particular story and then give him notes #scriptchat
- #scriptchat @RayMorton1 An idea keeps coming back to write (and back and back)...I can't seem to come up with a coherent starting point?
- @chris H: that will allow him to make his points more clearly and strongly #scriptchat
Hi @RayMorton1, besides knowing someone who knows someone, or via agent, what are some ways new writers get specs to readers? #scriptchat- @chris H: By clarifying the premise, focusing the narrative and the protag's arc, etc. #scriptchat
@RayMorton1 Whose style are current writers most mimicking? Years ago they all wanted to be Tarantino. #scriptchat
- @RayMorton1's articles post on @scriptmag first Friday of each month. He has a good one coming up :) http://www.scriptmag.com/author/raymorton … #scriptchat
- #scriptchat Do main characters really need an arc?
- @jon James: Don't worry too much about line to white space ratio. That's a fake script consultant notion #scriptchat
@RayMorton1 could you rate the matter of importance to you - 1st scene, 1st pg, 10thpg #scriptchat- @doc: There are still a lot of Tarantino imitators out there. These days, most writers copy gimmicks rather than writers #scriptchat
- @RayMorton1 Q: What advice would you give for people who haven't found a way yet to simplify/strengthen a concept? #scriptchat
- @doc: most overused gimmick today: non-linear storytelling. Such a bore #scriptchat
- @RayMorton1 Like, what if the concept you've written can't be easily described in a logline, w/a hook or irony in it? #scriptchat
- @Dave_Bullis thanks, Dave! #scriptchat
- @RayMorton1 i know that it's a sign that the story itself needs work. I'm finding myself in that situation right now #scriptchat
- @filmwritr4 are you referring to a "Kingsman" issue? #scriptchat
- @Anthony. Yes they do. #scriptchat
- @blueneumann I asked because I've begun reading "Save The Cat" and I just can't seem to find the "irony" in my concept #scriptchat
- @windar. What you listed, in that order. #scriptchat
- @blueneumann And I'm frustrated because I can't seem to understand what that means, or how to apply it to my scripts #scriptchat
- @chris H. I wouldn't worry so much about a logline, #scriptchat
- @RayMorton1 Non-linear storytelling only works when you are only bringing in what is absolutely relevant at that very moment. #scriptchat
- @ray for the setup & payoffs, you like seeing dialogue, action or visuals mostly? #scriptchat
@RayMorton1 One of the hardest things to master is subtext. Do you have any advice on how to write subtext? #scriptchat- @chris H but it you can't describe your concept in a few short sentences, it's because there's something off #scriptchat
- #scriptchat @RayMorton1 What if writers threw preconceived or taught or "the now" out the door and just went for it?
- @chris H -- too many ideas, poor focus, etc. #scriptchat
- @RayMorton1 I've asked mainly because I started reading Save The Cat, and I can't seem to find the "irony" in my concept #scriptchat
- @chris H. Don't get too hung up on Save the Cat. Please. #scriptchat
- #scriptchat Main characters should arc but what about the ones that dont ripley, richard kimble, john mcclane
- @RayMorton1 But I definitely understand what you're saying. Would like to get the concept easy to describe #scriptchat
- @jenzy -- can you clarify -- preconceived what? #scriptchat
- @AGSfilmmaker Hey! *waves* #scriptchat
- @RayMorton1 How do readers feel about flashbacks? I've heard some can't stand them even if they're central to story. #scriptchat
- @Anthony: Ripley, Kimbel, and McClane most definitely have arcs #scriptchat
- @jon: I tend to loathe flashbacks. I find most use of them to be incredibly lazy #scriptchat
- @jon a lazy way of delivering exposition or of trying to create a false sense of excitement #scriptchat
- @47young1 @RayMorton1 @filmwritr4 Tons of screenwriting opinions out there. Just write a great damn story. All else will follow. #scriptchat
- Do you feel the same about voiceover ? #scriptchat
- #scriptchat @RayMorton1 Wow! This is the fourth time I've "watched", but this is the first time I jumped in. By preconceived I mean>
- @matt. Usually. Most use of voiceover is very lazy. Not all, of course. But most. Esp in specs #scriptchat
- #scriptchat @RayMorton1 the typical things one strives to attain in a script-or any piece for that matter. I think I'm asking,"Why compare>
- #scriptchat Did Gerard in the fugitive have more of an arc?
- #scriptchat @RayMorton1 why follow teachings, why not develop and be HAPPY and at peace with one's own style whether it follows this or>
- #scriptchat rules are made to be broken.
Q: What's the next step once you finish your screenplay? #scriptchat- @writeranthonydp There are no rules! Only standards. #scriptchat
- #scriptchat @RayMorton1 that or whatever. @filmwritr4 led me to #scriptchat.After gleaning some info,I feel my type of writing fits nowhere
- #scriptchat Exactamundo!
- @RayMorton1 can we talk about structure for a bit? Any advice on nailing it? #scriptchat
- @AGSfilmmaker the box step. It's celebration time #scriptchat
- @RayMorton1 What techniques/tips would you suggest for writing subtext? Is it a matter of the purpose of the dialogue itself? #scriptchat
- @AGSfilmmaker did you actually finish one? #scriptchat
- #scriptchat Did they need voiceover in trainwreck? Discuss....
- @jenzy: I don't know if there are preconceived notions. There are genres and the concepts of #scriptchat
- Two rewrites later, @blueneumann #scriptchat
- @jenzy dramatic writing. Your work must address those things. Beyond that, it's a pretty open field. #scriptchat
- @AGSfilmmaker way to go, dude! #scriptchat
- @Jeanne: I think the best place to start with structure is to understand the classic 3 act dramatic structure #scriptchat
- @Jeanne: All film writing since the start is based on that concept #scriptchat
- @Jeanne: If you master the 3 act structure, it will help you develop proper structure in your scripts. #scriptchat
- @Jeanne. Structure that can then be varied for your own purposes. But that is where to start #scriptchat
- @IAmWindar five act structure fan? #scriptchat
- @RayMorton1 what's the number 1 thing that pulls you OUT of a story when you're reading it? #scriptchat
- @blueneumann @IAmWindar No. I believe in the 3. But there are those who love to argue against it #scriptchat
- What films have you seen in the last year that you thought were strongest from a writing standpoint? #scriptchat
- Thanks, @filmwritr. #scriptchat
- Shakespeare used a five-act structure, but when it's staged today they usually just do it at two acts like many plays. #scriptchat
- #scriptchat I know someone who teaches 7 act structure
- @jeannevb @RayMorton1 what's the number 1 thing that pulls you OUT of a story when you're reading it? #scriptchat
- @writeranthonydp that. seems. a. bit. much. to. me. #scriptchat
- There is no 3 act structure "argument."#scriptchat
- I've been leaning towards 3 Acts with 11 story beats, @RayMorton1 do the story beats vary by genre? #scriptchat
- That's just a lot of posing. All dramatic narratives follow the same basic format, no matter how things are apportioned. #scriptchat
- @writeranthonydp What 7 acts would that be? #scriptchat
- #scriptchat just a way to split up act 2...
- @Jeanne: Too many flashbacks too early in the script. Beginning with pretentious voice-over. #scriptchat
- @AGSfilmmaker You're welcome :) #scriptchat
- @RayMorton1 wanted to make sure you saw @DanOBannonBook's question on what are strongest written films of past year... #scriptchat
- Too much pointless detail in the descriptions. Unmotived non-linear storytelling #scriptchat
I changed the sex of my lead character. Story is sooo much better/powerful. Try it. Might not work but good exercise. #writing #scriptchat- @mowriterdxb I love doing this. #scriptchat
- @mowriterdxb - I did this for a script I rewrote for a friend in school. Made a world of difference. #scriptchat
- @Dan/Jeanne: I thought Ex-Machina was very well written. #scriptchat
- Strong structure, clever character writing #scriptchat
- @RayMorton1 - Agreed. An almost novelistic level of thematic complexity. Then again, Garland IS a novelist. #scriptchat
- I think that has been my favorite script of the year so far #scriptchat
- A theme in many of the questions tonight is what rules to follow and what rules not to follow #scriptchat
- There's a lot of anxiety out there about that #scriptchat
- Do you think the "universe-building" concept a la Marvel Studios hurts the writing of the individual films? #scriptchat
- I would encourage everyone to learn the basic elements of dramatic writing #scriptchat
- And study the basic structure and tropes of the genre you are writing in. #scriptchat
- @RayMorton1 Many believe if they just follow the so called rules, they increase their chances #scriptchat
- #scriptchat @RayMorton1 Besides the main basics, are there any "rules"? We would never read the wonderful voices of diversity.
- And then just write. #scriptchat
- You mentioned Save the Cat earlier. Any screenwriting books you'd especially recommend? #scriptchat
- @windar They won't #scriptchat
- @jenzy: This whole "rules" thing is a bit of a fiction. #scriptchat
- @RayMorton1 Exactly. I always gets bashed for saying "Just Write a great, intriguing story" #scriptchat
- @MovieMovieBlogB great advice. Thank you #scriptchat
- @jenzy: You have to tell a good story. It has to be clearly and coherently written. It has to be cinematic. Beyond that... #scriptchat
- And there it is! RT @RayMorton1: @jenzy: This whole "rules" thing is a bit of a fiction. #scriptchat
- Is there a difference between "pretentious" and useful voice over? #scriptchat
- @RayMorton1 any advice on finding your writing voice? #scriptchat
- @windar. It's not just a "great story" because that's a subjective opinion. #scriptchat
- @windar> It has to be an interesting story. It has to be cinematic. If you want a studio to make it it has to be genre. #scriptchat
- @windar. And it has to be commerical #scriptchat
- @RayMorton1 What advice do you have on writing visual descriptions? I know there are a lot of scripts that are very detailed #scriptchat
- @Jeanne: For your first script, write a story that has personal meaning for you and don't censor yourself. #scriptchat
- @filmwritr4 @RayMorton1 I think that is the problem. A lot of folks try to imitate other commercial successes #scriptchat
- #scriptchat And tell us what makes great character description...
- @Jeanne: That is the best way to find your voice. And then you can bring it to your next scripts #scriptchat
- @filmwritr4 @RayMorton1 - If you're already established, I think you can fudge conventions a little more. #scriptchat
- @filmwritr4 @RayMorton1 - I saw the first page of Amy Schumer's TRAINWRECK script, and she had descriptions a dozen lines long. #scriptchat
- @RayMorton1 Instead of writing in their own commercial voice/style #scriptchat
- @chris H: Write sparely. Use descriptions that capture the essence of a set or a character, rather than detailed descriptions of #scriptchat
- @DanOBannonBook I see. I don’t try to do huge blocks of description (just the bare essentials, etc.) #scriptchat
- @chris H; furnishings or the clothes a person is wearing or how many freckles they have #scriptchat
- @RayMorton1 Thanks Ray. :) I was thinking about that a lot. I'd only describe something aesthetic if it's relevant to the story #scriptchat
- @RayMorton1 Like the color of hair, walls, furniture, etc. #scriptchat
- #scriptchat @RayMorton1 The subtleties of Ex Machina and the superb writing and dialogue will not be such a commercial success?
- #scriptchat Diablo Cody's descriptions are fantastic
- RT @RayMorton1: @Jeanne: For your first script, write a story that has personal meaning for you and don't censor yourself. #scriptchat
- @RayMorton1 Because I usually find myself writing character descriptions w/hair, wardrobe, etc. #scriptchat
- @RayMorton1 any advice on building tension or finding the best endings? #scriptchat
- Check our @RayMorton1’s books on Amazon too #scriptchat http://www.amazon.com/Ray-Morton/e/B001JS3CKC/ref=dp_byline_cont_book_1 …
- @filmwritr4 note that the hairdresser and wardrobe designer are more qualified to figure that stuff out. #scriptchat
@RayMorton1 Is it off-putting to read scripts containing colloquialisms you're unfamiliar with? British slang, etc. #scriptchat- @Jeanne: For building tension, I think a linear build is vital -- to increase the stakes as the story goes forward #scriptchat
- @blueneumann Definitely. And that's also why I don't do camera directions. DP's/camera operators know more about that stuff #scriptchat
- #scriptchat @RayMorton1 @filmwritr4 I compare that to the author known as Anne Rice. I picture Stevie Nicks with scarves a' flowing.
- Don't interupt the flow of the story with flashbacks and asides unless they are absolutely necessary (and most times they arent) #scriptchat
- And don't allow the audience to get ahead of the characters. We should only learn info when the characters do #scriptchat
- @RayMorton1 Oh this drives me CRAZY! #scriptchat
- @RayMorton1 Can you touch on linear/non-linear story #scriptchat
- @RayMorton1 - What about something like Hitchcock's famous bomb-under-the-table-example? We know it's there; characters don't. #scriptchat
- #scriptchat @RayMorton1 @filmwritr4 Less is, in many cases, more. Chris knows me too well. I talk way too much. It's true in many cases.
- #scriptchat anyone know if john wick was linear in the script ot was that the director moving stuff around?
- #scriptchat @RayMorton1 Tell Tale Heart❤️
- @matt: that would be suspense. A different thing. But you can't go wrong with Hitch #scriptchat
- @ Walter. Not ones I'm unfamilar with, but ones the writer clearly is (lots of non US writers try to write in American slang) #scriptchat
- 5 more minutes ... hope you're fingers are holding up @RayMorton1 #scriptchat
- It usually doesn't work. And vice versa (americans trying to write British idiom can be quite amusing) #scriptchat
- Any plans for future Music on Film volumes? #scriptchat
- #scriptchat @RayMorton1 Have you read Amusing Ourselves to Death by Postman? I think much of what he says pertains to the talk tonight.
- Hah! They are. This is fast and furious #scriptchat
- I'm off to watch Ray Donovan on Showtime. Need to take a break from the computer. #scriptchat
- @RayMorton1 TY Sir for taking the time #scriptchat
- @RayMorton1 @DanOBannonBook Since you mentioned Music on Film, I should also mention I write about film music for @FSMOnlineMag #scriptchat
- Love FSM #scriptchat
- @RayMorton1 Thanks so much for taking the time to answer our questions, and for contributing your great insight on screenwriting #scriptchat
@writeranthonydp I think just the beginning was an in media res teaser. The rest was still traditionally linear... that I recall #scriptchat- @RayMorton1 Me too. I've done features for them for 2 years, along with reviews. #scriptchat
- You are all very welcome. Thanks for having me. #scriptchat
- thanks @RayMorton1 for being here! #scriptchat
- We appreciate your time and insights. #scriptchat
- @RayMorton1 My interviews with Lorne Balfe (Terminator: Genisys) and Gabriel Mann (Rectify) are in this month's issue. #scriptchat
- Thanks for having me guys! Thanks @jeannevb for inviting Ray to be on! Love you guys! See you next week! #scriptchat
- #scriptchat thanks hank.You rock ray!
- If anyone has any questions I can help you with, email me at ray@raymorton.com and I'll try to help #scriptchat
@RayMorton1 Thank you so much for your time. #scriptchat- cheers Ray #scriptchat
- thanks @RayMorton1, great tips. #scriptchat
- @47young1 Thanks for being here Jen. So glad you participated and would love to see you come back each week! *HUGS* <3 you #scriptchat
- #scriptchat @RayMorton1 Thank you so much. You are a delight and down to earth person. Thanks again. Honored.
How'd everyone do on their goals this week? https://www.facebook.com/writeononline #writeon #scriptchat @GuidedGoals- My first time here. I'll definitely be back soon. #scriptchat
- Thanks, everyone. #scriptchat
- #scriptchat @jeannevb Thank you. I feel very humbled. Thank you again.
- Awesome insight tonight on #scriptchat with @RayMorton1 Missed it? Wait for the transcript https://twitter.com/jeannevb/status/625470658609332224 …
- Next week we're talking about dialogue writing. #scriptchat
Thanks for sharing, nice post! Post really provice useful information!
ReplyDeleteGiaonhan247 chuyên dịch vụ mua hàng mỹ từ dịch vụ order hàng mỹ hay nhận mua nước hoa pháp từ website nổi tiếng hàng đầu nước Mỹ mua hàng ebay ship về VN uy tín, giá rẻ.