WILLIWM MONAHAN QUOTE

[echomusic]

For me, what it all boils down to is this: Tell YOUR story in a way that is compelling and intriguing to read. You could be writing a romantic comedy, a sci fi epic or a suspense thriller – if it is something we haven’t seen before, and done in an interesting way, well you’ve got someone’s attention.

Formatting? Formatting is like those white stripes in the center of a road. Yes, they’re there for a reason and most of the time we like to obey the law and stay in our lane. But sometimes, late at night, you like to ride with the lines moving underneath the center of your hood – pretending you’re a monorail at Disney. Am I right, people?

No?

So, I’m the only one.

Any way…just tell a good story.

[nason]

I wish there was more screenwriter commentaries on DVD's. Some of these pro's should get on Youtube and discuss portions of the film if they had the time. Like Guerilla Commentary...

Of course, they'd probably have to wear a ski mask, it would have to have a pom-pom to let people know they come in peace..

[echenry]

@ echomusic,

Sure your main point is important. A script SHOULD always be interesting to read. BUT handling formating conventions properly and with due respect is a sign of professionalism that shouldn't be glossed over, or overlooked.

- E.C. Henry from Bonney Lake, WA

[oz]

And I'll again make my case that so often is forgotten: Writing is art. Art is subjective.

That said, part of the problem, especially with screenwriting, is there are too many who look at it as a quick way to get famous as opposed to a true craft that must be refined. Storytelling is half gift, half honed craft. Too many want to find the secret formula because they 'got a million great ideas'.

The problem with acknowledging Monahan's and Halberln's perspective is that you're caving in to those who are out to make it quick and easy instead of learning the craft. I'm not necessarily a stickler for formatting but I think it's important to learn it. Just like it's important to learn to drive, observing all the rules of the road before you head straight to the race track.

Too few interested in telling a great story and more interested in finding an agent the minute they write their first script/book/poem.

[echomusic]

@ E.C. -- I'm by no means saying that you should neglect formatting. Not at all. You should use it, but I think the tendency by some are one way or the other – you stick to formatting so your script looks cold and rigid, or you break conventions and think you’re the next Tarantino by writing it in your way, changing the font to Times Roman or doing something to stand apart from the rest that only makes you look nutty.

The thing is, there is a middle ground to it all. Many great, great screenwriters have found it. It’s up to us as writers to find our own and claim it.

[nason]

Good points by Oz. I've submitted three scripts in 13 years. Three at the beginning... oh it was great, reads at CAA, Circle, Scott Free... etc. but they were lost opportunities. I didn't have the skill to pull off the stories I was trying to write, and I didn't understand why.
Now I haven't submittted in 7 years., because I'm trying to nail my craft so that the next one, is truly the best that I can possibly do. Not just something I could finish after 2 drafts.
It may be another seven years until I do. But I want that next submission to leave a crater on someone desk, not become another for the stack of Passed material.

Maybe the worst thing that can happen is that somebody can sell, but then doesn't have the skill to make a career out of this. Not on'y do I want to write great material. I want to be a true writer capable of meeting expectations, especially my own.

I have great ideas, but until the engine (craft) the vehicle (script) won't drive right and it will just sit on the lot.