Archive for February, 2006
Screenwriting: One Unnatural Act
There is nothing natural about screenwriting.
As a mode of self-expression, it is highly restrictive, serving function over form. If screenplays were the artistic experience, then you would go to museums to look at blueprints. Screenplays use written language to suggest a visual language where the writer is not the final interpreter.
However, like any discipline, when [...]
Posted: February 10th, 2006 under The Craft.
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Annapolis
Logline: James Franco endures trials and tribulations to survive his first year in the Naval Academy.
The good idea:
It’s “An Officer and A Gentleman” only different.
What didn’t work:
Jake Huard is set up as a hot headed, anti-authority misfit. However, neither in his home life nor in his plebe year does he demonstrate this trait to the [...]
Posted: February 6th, 2006 under Analysis.
Comments: none
Good Night and Good Luck
Logline: A TV newsman puts his network at risk confronting a US Senator on his investigation tactics.
The good idea:
Recreate the behind the scenes discussion at CBS during the Senate hearings investigating Communist activities in the US.
What worked:
Edward R. Murrow’s own words. An unconventional story structure, probably based on the needs from actual historical events, the [...]
Posted: February 6th, 2006 under Analysis.
Comments: none