Moderator: Zac Sanford @zacsanford
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#Scriptchat Transcript: @FinishLineScrip - The Rewrite (Where the hell do I even start?)
Finish Line Script Competition @FinishLineScrip talked with our screenwriters about rewriting, tips for taking screenplay feedback, and how to make your script pop. Moderator: Zac Sanford @zacsanford
- IT’S #SCRIPTCHAT O'CLOCK w/ @FinishLineScrip - The Rewrite: Where the hell do I even start? Chat here: http://www.tchat.io/rooms/scriptchat …
- Hey hey all #scriptchat
- Hello everyone and welcome our guest @FinishLineScip -- Tonight we're talking about Rewrites! #scriptchat
- Hello all- happy to be here. Hi Zac! #scriptchat
- Evening all. Been a while since I've joined a scriptchat, but after going though lots of rewrites, thought I'd say hi. #scriptchat
- The dreaded rewrite need not so dreaded!! #scriptchat
- This is one place where a lot of writers fall flat. I can't tell you how many rewrites come my way that just word smith. #scriptchat
- @FinishLineScrip How do we not dread what is so dreaded? #scriptchat
- So before we jump fully in, tell us a little about yourself @FinishLineScrip #scriptchat
- I'm pretty good at identifying flaws and asking questions about my work, but working out and executing the solutions... #scriptchat
- I'm current an accounting tempt who would like to write for animated series. #scriptchat
- Thanks Zac, I'm an ex-lit manager, currently read for about 5 top screenplay competitions and ave my own consultancy #scriptchat
- Also just started the Finish Line Script Competition where the focus is on helping writers win through rewriting! #scriptchat
- @FinishLineScrip Interesting concept on the contest. What made you want to do something so different from the others? #scriptchat
- I believe there are two types of rewrite: 1) the one you do during your own writing process before you have a saleable script #scriptchat
- As someone who reads so much for competitions, I saw so many scripts that shouldn't be there yet, that still needed a rewrite #scriptchat
- #scriptchat Anyone used Scrivener or any others over Final Draft for the rewrite process? I struggle with going back n forth finding bits
- So we developed the competition so people could enter and then receive notes and work with a consultant to improve the script #scriptchat
- @AdrienneAiken I love Scrivener b/c I'm a real lateral thinker. But I haven't really cracked it for rewriting yet. Any tips? #scriptchat
- and 2) the rewrites you do for a producer/studio following their notes on the job. Very different beasts. #scriptchat
- For all those in attendance, feel free to shoot your rewriting questions to @FinishLineScrip #scriptchat
- @AdrienneAiken I use Celtx due to no other options. #scriptchat
- I think that the less a writer knows his story the more notes they're going to get. This cannot be a concept - #scriptchat
- Hey guys! *waves* Sorry I'm late! #scriptchat
- characters and story have to be fully outlined and you need to know everything before you start, Then, you need to be able to #scriptchat
- @FinishLineScrip Q: What about rewriting while writing? I have found myself going back and changing things. #scriptchat
- @FinishLineScrip Q: what's the first thing that jumps out at you typically for a script that needs a rewrite? #scriptchat
- step back and let someone else take a look so you can take a break. You cannot get so personally invested that you won't change #scriptchat
- at needs to be changed. #scriptchat
- @FinishLineScrip Thanks very much for joining us, and thanks to @SarahAlexis, @zacsanford2 and @jeannevb for having you join us #scriptchat
- #scriptchat Do you do several rewrite passes for diff things like main char, dialog or just fix everything at once?
- Characters almost always need to be better developed. Writing out full bios for every character and how they interact with #scriptchat
- @FinishLineScrip Q: What tips would you suggest for someone to rewrite dialogue, i.e. give it more subtext? #scriptchat
- characters is key to having 3-Dimensional characters that impact story and emotion. #scriptchat
- @Al_1701 @FinishLineScrip #scriptchat some writers ban themselves from rewriting until 1st draft is written
- @SarahAlexis4 :D Thanks Sarah! Me too! #scriptchat
- Dialogue is something that one has to have some skill in. We want stories that feel real, not written. #scriptchat
- Rewriting for me needs to include others reading it, so I know what doesn't work. I'm too close to the story sometimes to see it #scriptchat
- #scriptchat Woo hoo! Almost forgot. :)
- @40pluswargamer Hey JP! Welcome! *waves to you and everyone* #scriptchat
- If your question is missed with the barrage of questions sent to our guest, please wait a bit before asking again. #scriptchat
- The more written a script feels, the more the writer needs to take a step back and relax the dialogue to conversation. #scriptchat
- Tonight #scriptchat 5pm PT w/ @FinishLineScrip - The Rewrite: Where the hell do I even start? Chat here: http://www.tchat.io/rooms/scriptchat …
- I think rewriting when writing is OK but sometimes it's good to get that first draft out and do it a streamlined way. #scriptchat
- Rewriting is a different skill than writing - it's a real need to be WILLING to change things. To let things go. #scriptchat
- @FinishLineScrip Q: When rewriting dialogue, in addition to making it more conversational, is it about the intent of the lines? #scriptchat
- @FinishLineScrip Took me a long time to realize that. But yes! #scriptchat
- @FinishLineScrip Q: By that, I mean, why is this person saying this, that or the other, and for what purpose? #scriptchat
- Outlining is the key to rewriting. It's always going to come back to that initial outline. #scriptchat
- @FinishLineScrip Once I started to reoutline before rewriting, it made a huge difference in my ability to tackle the task. #scriptchat
- Oh goodie, more outlining. Although in theory it should be easier the SECOND time cause you know the story, right? #scriptchat
- @FinishLineScrip Q: When writing a character bio, how extensive should it be, and how do you know what to use/not use? #scriptchat
- Every scene in a script must move the script along. Whether through action, dialogue, exposition, it the script must progress. #scriptchat
- @blueneumann Hey Chris! *waves* #scriptchat
- Yes, outlining will get easier but it also needs to be solid to begin with. Bios should be as extensive as you want, so you #scriptchat
- @filmwritr4 hey Chris #scriptchat
- can have fully rounded characters. They need to have connections with everyone and all action you create, #scriptchat
- I go nuts with the character bios. If they're solid enough, they can endure any changes to the story #scriptchat
- @FinishLineScrip What if the character is highly introverted? #scriptchat
- Every scene must create or resolve arcs, develop characters, motive or conflict or resolve things. & instill humor or suspense. #scriptchat
- @Al_1701 Refraining from action can be action. #scriptchat
- Emotional arcs work for introverted characters. Most themes stem from emotional arcs. #scriptchat
- @blueneumann Very true. #scriptchat
- #scriptchat what's ur advice on emotionless, unexpressive chars eg. with Asperger's syndrome without making them zombie like?
- @jgsarantinos I second this question. #scriptchat
- @blueneumann @Al_1701 less is more. sometimes a reaction to an intended action works better. #scriptchat
- You have to go with what you feel is right. Rewrite notes are not personal to you, they're about your script. Craft, not ego. #scriptchat
- @FinishLineScrip Q: On average, how many rewrites would you recommend before a script can be as best as it can be? (may vary) #scriptchat
- @Al_1701 @jgsarantinos If you want a good example on tackling this type of character, check later seasons of #Parenthood #scriptchat
- Laaaaate! But here now! #scriptchat
- Yes, number of rewrites may vary. Recently one of the scripts we got through our competition was pretty 'not good'. I worried #scriptchat
- #scriptchat @FinishLineScrip And how many rewrites before you let your baby go to a consultant? When you're ready to throw the laptop?
- #scriptchat anyone else got any views on best software for rewriting? I find FD great generally, but when rewriting, less so
- writer wouldn't be able to make any headroom and it would be a hard process but we gave 6 pages of notes and he turned in a #scriptchat
- highly improved new draft. So, he's going to have less work to do than expected. I have gone up to seven drafts with clients. #scriptchat
- I am constantly reminded of the adage that says "great works are never finished but merely abandoned." #rewriting #scriptchat
- When you no longer feel you can look at the script objectively it's time to get it to a consultant. You must be ready to change. #scriptchat
- Effects of three dimensional writing- You'll feel totally trapped in the story/the script you are reading #scriptwriting #scriptchat
- #scriptchat Which could be forever.
@fwmedia TRUE CRIME WRITING: The Devil is in The Details @scriptmag http://bit.ly/1RaBJ7I #scriptchat #amwriting pic.twitter.com/VhtR8dDdix- There will always be room for improvement but that starts and ends with the writer's desire to work. Kill your Darlings. #scriptchat
- @jgsarantinos The @ELEMENTARYStaff are doing a great job with representation in the character of Fiona! #scriptchat
- @FinishLineScrip Q: Based on your work/consultation with comedy writers, any rewrite techniques for that genre? #scriptchat
- @FinishLineScrip Q: Or are the techniques for re-writing pretty much the same as for any other genre? #scriptchat
- Comedy is hard. You have to be funny. Sometimes I tell people to try and create new stories that will bring more comedy. #scriptchat
- I find the greatest re-writing tools are time & distance. Set is aside to get perspective instead of constantly wresting w/it. #scriptchat
- Comedy needs to be reigned in at times, so often it's about story, development and dialogue. Unless you're naturally witty. #scriptchat
- #scriptchat "Comedy is hard. You have to be funny." (That made me laugh)
- @JLalliWriter #scriptchat months or even a year. distance brings a new perspective on things
- @FinishLineScrip Even then you need moderation. That one joke too far can ruin the entire comedy. #scriptchat
- I've had experiences where writers who came to me or competition for consult had ideas I expressed in my notes but needed #scriptchat
- @SarahAlexis4 It disturbs me to see TV writing that doesn't take that into acct.Shoehorning character behavior2serve the plot. #scriptchat
- voice, more assurance they were following the right path. #scriptchat
- I was a lit manager I worked with clients on many rewrites before/after options or purchase. Make sure whoever is reading you #scriptchat
- @FinishLineScip Q Do you feel people should tackle certain things on each rewrite? Char, plot, scene work, dialouge, etc. #scriptchat
- I need to finish this rewrite so I can send it to friends and get feedback to do a REAL rewrite. That feels so stupid. #scriptchat
- really knows what it takes to make that script better. I like every script I read for consult. I don't worry about that. #scriptchat
- #scriptchat some comedy rewrites mean new better gags.
- I think good notes will touch on all things that need to be looked at. Some things don't need to be looked at in a big rewrite #scriptchat
- @jgsarantinos A laugh a minute. I hate comedy where it's a whole scene for ONE joke. #scriptchat
- Later, after the script has more solid ground I might get into dialogue issues. Most important is getting structure #scriptchat
- @FinishLineScrip Have you worked with anyone who's written content for the web/streaming, preferably short content? #scriptchat
- story and character arcs solid. Motive is key. Purpose and reason for things happening. #scriptchat
- @blueneumann #scriptchat a lot of network comedies rely on 3 jokes per page.
- Yes, I have worked with people who have created web-series. #scriptchat
- @blueneumann @jgsarantinos Reminds me of that Kids' Choice countdown clock skit last night on SNL. Same joke over and over. #scriptchat
- Good readers will cover structure, story, pace, tone, theme, character, dialogue, description. We do in our competition notes. #scriptchat
- @filmwritr4 I didn't even FINISH that sketch. #scriptchat
- @FinishLineScrip Very cool. From your experience, what tips do you have for writers of short form content re: rewrites? #scriptchat
- I used to work with a very seasoned comedy writer for TV who said you should be able to open a script and #scriptchat
- @blueneumann It wasn’t even all that funny. I don’t think it made a lot of sense. #scriptchat
- #scriptchat I think it's important for consultants to give positive feedback where a writer has done good as well as critique Not ego, helps
- understand the story from whatever page you read. Everything needs to be that tight. #scriptchat
- Here's information on the @FinishLineScrip contest: http://www.finishlinescriptcomp.com/dates/ #scriptchat
- Yes, you must always encourage the writer. It's a hard job and I am always impressed with anyone who writes anything! #scriptchat
- I've some great short scripts. Sometimes they're easier because you don't have to fill so much. Again, it's all in the outline. #scriptchat
- @AdrienneAiken #scriptchat for me all feedback should actionable. liking a char or scene doesn't really help me.
- #scriptchat @FinishLineScrip that fee includes shorts as well for the competition?
- I've always had trouble with shorter subjects #scriptchat
- The best way for someone to rewrite on their own is to read every scene and ask whether it moves the story. What's the purpose? #scriptchat
@fwmedia CASTING & ACTING MAGIC: Master Class w @C_Hardwicke @scriptmag http://bit.ly/1pvR8Do #scriptchat pic.twitter.com/zZBd1V4CLU- @FinishLineScrip Q: Best way to outline a short script, if it's web series, sketch or short film? #scriptchat
- In feedback, saying we like a character or scene is to let you know what works and that you're on the right track. #scriptchat
- od feedback should be in depth and constructuve. Helpful with examples. #scriptchat
- Good feedback I should say. #scriptchat
- What is the story you want to tell? Who are the characters, the conflict and the plot lines that are going to tell it? #scriptchat
- Where do you start and where do you want to end up? Who is in there to make that arc happen? What is your theme? #scriptchat
- All of this needs to be in beats so there isn't excess chatter, no scenes that don't matter. Characters and ideas cannot pop up! #scriptchat
- The writer must plan the layout of the script. #scriptchat
- @AdrienneAiken #scriptchat touche, for instance dialog in scene 1 is great but on the nose in scene 2. a comparison helps.
- It's clear when someone has just written without a plan and when one is followed. The latter usually makes a lot more sense, #scriptchat
- I think rewrites help sweep a lot of the excess stuff that the writer thought would add to the script away... #scriptchat
- Some of the best feedback/notes I've gotten from @theblcklst & contest notes have been extremely harsh. #realtalk #scriptchat #rewriting
- #scriptchat i.e a plan....
- And give the writer perspective on what's missing. #scriptchat
- I do not bullshit (excuse my language) when it comes to notes.I want to encourage but the writer needs to know where they stand. #scriptchat
- I worked with the writer who won last years Launch Pad pilot contest. 7 rewrites. #scriptchat
- Rhythm is important too - For TV, knowing when to cut out of acts and for Film, cut outs of scenes, very important to success. #scriptchat
- @FinishLineScrip How do you know when to walk away from a project instead of being stuck in rewrite hell? #scriptchat
- I wish I could be as high-frequency as my rewriting as Pixar is. CONSTANT rewriting #scriptchat
- This is where sometimes, feedback can simply say - this works. The pace is keeping me involved. #scriptchat
- @FinishLineScrip #scriptchat but you can be diplomatic. you can say this is a very rough, loose unpolished draft rather than...
- I think there are scripts that you feel more of a connection to and know you can keep working on. Others just aren't in you. #scriptchat
- @FinishLineScrip That's why I like objective notes from people outside my circle - friends & fam often go "too easy" on it #scriptchat
- A good consultant will help you figure out how to keep rewriting to bring progress instead of stalling. #scriptchat
- @FinishLineScrip Q: How would you know where to end an act/begin another if you did a TV script? #scriptchat
- Acts are about an amount of time passing and always ending on conflict or suspense. This is where someone can turn off the TV #scriptchat
- @FinishLineScrip Bad notes homogenize every story into tropes, remove a writer's individuality -- what is your approach? #scriptchat
- We only have 15 minutes left with our guest @FinishLineScrip. Get those rewrite questions in now. #scriptchat
- #scriptchat @FinishLineScrip David Trottier suggests get away from your script for two weeks after you finish. What do you suggest?
- @FinishLineScrip Exactly. I definitely know that. #scriptchat
- Depends on drama or comedy scripts but a number of acts need to keep the pace and make sure people stay involved. #scriptchat
- Yes, writers need to put the script in a drawer. I suggest, when you're not writing to watch great movies or TV & read. #scriptchat
- Sometimes you get bad notes. It's a shame. But a good consultant, and we have many, will get in there with you and help you work #scriptchat
- @FinishLineScrip Q: Any particular movies/TV shows, and their scripts, you would suggest? #scriptchat
- @FinishLineScrip Q If you had to give one big piece of advice on the rewriting process, what would it be? #scriptchat
- out YOUR script, not a scripts in general.Craft must be tackled but specifics of your script will be assessed most specifically. #scriptchat
- @Al_1701 By that, you mean? I’m not sure what question you responded to. #scriptchat
- It's always going to be about going back to t he outline and readjusting. Emotional arcs are super important. #scriptchat
- @filmwritr4 What you should watch or read. #scriptchat
- #scriptchat Seeing successful scripts is great too. but there needs to be more spec scripts online - most examples are shooting scripts.
- @Al_1701 Oh, okay. Thanks. :) #scriptchat
- For all it's action and adventure, The Revenant worked so well because it was an emotional story. That can be any genre. #scriptchat
- My advice is to know your script and story like the back of your hand. Be able to answer any question off the bat. #scriptchat
- @FinishLineScrip Visuals were spectacular, too #scriptchat
- If I may just plug the competiton,you can enter your script as is or get 6 pages of notes and keep working w/the same consultant #scriptchat
- the prizes are great, You meet with over 15 people if you win. And if you don't you come out with a much better script. #scriptchat
- We wanted to make sure you at least got a better script out of it as most notes aren't given until the end. Resubmission is free #scriptchat
- Take time to absorb the notes you receive. Start bit by bit where you feel most comfortable.Go back to your outline. Rewrite IT. #scriptchat
- Rewriting your outline is going to be key to making changes. Always be open to change. Start with the skeleton of the story #scriptchat
- Rewrite character bios, how they interact with others to get purpose and meaning in scenes. Conflict has to feel organic. #scriptchat
- Stories cannot be left hanging. Read your script over and over, don't just rewrite it. Know it. #scriptchat
- #scriptchat Cheers guys :) M'off.
- @FinishLineScrip It amazes me how often when I hear pitches and I'll ask questions that the writer doesn't know how to answer. #scriptchat
- @FinishLineScrip Awesome advice, and thanks so much for sharing it with me and all of us. Really appreciate it! #scriptchat
- @FinishLineScrip Again, thanks so much for joining us, and for taking the time to answer our questions. #scriptchat
- Remember... Write drunk. Edit sober. The hardest (but best IMO) part of writing is the rewriting process. #scriptchat
- You need that solid elevator pitch bit also answers to each question a reader asks. If you don't you better figure it out! #scriptchat
- Rewriting is more than just word-smithing. Dig in. Tear things apart. Your script will thank you for it. #scriptchat
- we have a couple more minutes if you've got a last minute question. #scriptchat
- Thank you, @FinishLineScrip - great insight and advice on rewrites #scriptchat
- #scriptchat @FinishLine thanks so much for tonight.
- Go Into The Story | Zero Draft Thirty 2016 Spring Challenge: Day 13: Zero Draft Thirty: Day 13. Ma... http://bit.ly/1YP20Iz #Scriptchat
- You cannot have a successful script w/out a successful rewrite.Get help with it, there are lots of very qualified people to help #scriptchat
- We're always sober so if you want help with the rewrite you know where to find us http://www.finishlinescriptcomp.com . #scriptchat
- Next week we're talking about Screenwriting for Novelists. @authorJamie moderating. #scriptchat
- @FinishLineScrip Q Sorry if this has been asked, but how many rewrites until it just needs to be put to pasture? #scriptchat
- Even if you don't write novels, feel free to join us as there will be lots of great tidbits. #scriptchat
- #scriptchat working out what ur story isn't can be just as important as what ur story is.
- And a big thanks to @FinishLineScrip for joining us and giving the deets to rock your next (or current) rewrite. #scriptchat
- As many rewrites as you can do without not being able to move forward anymore. Somethings just end. #scriptchat
- Embrace the outline. And the re-outline. It can make yuge difference. #scriptchat
- My pleasure to be here. thanks so much for all the questions and the opportunity. #scriptchat
- Enjoyed being here, and chatting with you guys, as always! #scriptchat
- Once again, here's the link to the @FinishLineScrip contest: http://www.finishlinescriptcomp.com/ #scriptchat
- Night everybody. #scriptchat
- Great chat! #scriptchat
- Thanks so much for having me! Night guys! #scriptchat
- G'night all. See you next week. Now get to those pages. #scriptchat
- Okay, now... well, later... to see if re-outlining my draft will help me solve my issues #scriptchat
- Seriously some of my issues with the script are so... that there's no easy answer. #scriptchat
Thanks for the great #scriptchat conversation on #rewriting. @jeannevb @zacsanford. Open for regular submissions now pic.twitter.com/Fk73gFFdg0
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