SCRIPT PIMP MAY NEWSLETTER (http://www.scriptpimp.com)
*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** May 15th: The FINAL 2008 Script Pimp Competition deadline (only through Without a Box)! http://www.scriptpimp.com/writing_competition/home.cfm
May 15th: the 2008 Script Pimp TV Contest deadline! http://www.scriptpimp.com/tv/home.cfm
Contents: (1) Deadline May 15th for Script Pimp 2008 (2) Script Sales Report (April 2008) (3) Upcoming Contests (4) New Script Pimp Recommended Scripts (5) 6th Annual Script Pimp Screenwriting Competition (6) Box Office Report (April 2008) (7) Ask the Script Pimp Expert (8) Writer Feedback (9) Script Pimp in the News (10) Summary of Script Pimp Services - New Service Available (11) Screenwriters Resources - HollyNorth Project
SPECIAL OFFER: Join the Writers Database before June 30th and receive two (2) additional bonus years and a FREE entry into the competition. http://www.scriptpimp.com/writers_database/index_wdb.cfm
=============================================== (1) Deadline May 15th (through Without a Box only) for Script Pimp 2008 ===============================================
$12,000 in cash, $20,000 in prizes
Submissions accepted in Final Draft, PDF, Movie Magic & Word.
5 scripts optioned from 2006 and 2007! 8 writers gained representation. Past winner, SLAMMIN' sold for to Warner Brothers for six-figures!
Over 60 companies have requested to read the top Script Pimp's top 20 finalists for 2008. FINAL DEADLINE: May 15th (through Without a Box), 2008
"For the 6th straight year I join the pack hungry to read the Script Pimp finalists ." Colin O'Reilly, Co-Producer of "Blades of Glory"
"We are once again looking forward to reading the 2008 Script Pimp finalists as it is one of the highest quality of contests in town with an excellent track record in discovering new talent." Jake Wagner, Manager (Energy Entertainment)
"The Script Pimp Contest is an excellent opportunity for undiscovered or unread writers to get read by industry professionals. I'm very excited to be a part of this event again this year." Andrew Kersey, Manager (Kersey Management)
"I review the Script Pimp top 20 right away." Jewerl Ross, Agent (Silent R)
The studios have finally found their post-strike mojo as specs sales were brisk this month. The most high-profile sales, however, continued to be adaptations. Major sales included another adaptation of Emily Bronte’s WUTHERING HEIGHTS. Olivia Hetreed will pen the latest version with John Maybury attached to direct and Natalie Portman set to star. The pic will be produced by Ecosse Films and HanWay Films. Scribe Timothy Sexton will write TIME CRIMES based on Nacho Vigalondo’s novel, “Los Cronocrimenes”, a thriller about a man who travels back in time one half hour in order to prevent a serious crime. United Artists purchased the script. Universal has hired Dirk Wittenborn to adapt Alan Glynn’s sci-fi novel THE DARK FIELDS, about a loser who gets his hands on a top-secret pharmaceutical drug that makes you smarter. Shia LaBeouf will star. Lionsgate will continue its lucrative relationship with writer-director Tyler Perry by purchasing MADEA GOES TO JAIL. Perry will adapt from his own stageplay.
Check our newswire for past script sales reports: http://www.scriptpimp.com/news/home.cfm
"Only months after receiving a grade of RECOMMEND on our script, we were able to use the endorsement letter and coverage we received to secure an option agreement for high five to low six figures for our script. The producer hopes to have the script into production within a year, and all eyes coming in contact with the script continue to be impressed. We couldn't have done it without you guys, so hat's off to you!" -Ian Noakes & Scott Parisien
"I don't know who read my script and provided the notes but all I have to say is they are BRILLIANT. THANKS SO MUCH! You folks have been so helpful and patient and your suggestions are definitely not falling on deaf ears." -Allie Davidson
=============================================== (7) Ink Tip ===============================================
***InkTip Works*** InkTip.com is the only website in the world where three scripts are optioned or writers are hired every week. Our password-protected website is designed for writers to place their works. Writers can place a logline, synopsis, treatment and/or script for the big screen, television or a novel. Searches can be very detailed so that when an industry member is looking for your kind of script, it will be easy to find. From the scripts/writers found on InkTip.com, at least 70 films have been produced! For example, AmberGreen Entertainment started production on a script by an InkTip scribe, with Vivica A. Fox starring. For more info, please see http://www.inktip.com/prod.php Subscribe to our newsletter, which contains lead(s) every week telling you what producers are looking for right now at http://www.inktip.com/newsletter_writers.php It is $50 to place one script for six months on the website (this includes your logline, synopsis, description, treatment, and script, as well as your resume). Register now at www.InkTip.com
=============================================== (9) Script Pimp in the News ===============================================
View all Script Pimp Press http://www.scriptpimp.com/features/creative_screenwriting.cfm
Script Pimp's feature film "The Living Wake" reviewed by Variety http://www.scriptpimp.com/newsletters/variety.cfm
Script Pimp on TV (Peter Bart's Sunday Morning Shootout) http://movies.yahoo.com/mv/mf/frame?theme=sms&lid=wmv-56-p.1368820-149798,wm v-100-p.1368821-149798,wmv-300-p.1368822-149798,wmv-700-p.1368823-149798&p=m ovies&c=p3&.skin=movies&f=76362974
May 15th is the FINAL 2008 Competition deadline! http://www.scriptpimp.com/writing_competition/home.cfm
May 15th is the 2008 Script Pimp TV Contest deadline http://www.scriptpimp.com/tv/home.cfm
=============================================== (10) Summary of Script Pimp Services - New Service Available ===============================================
*One-On-On Phone Consultation with Senior Story Analyst http://www.scriptpimp.com/script_coverage/index_ww2.cfm
Script Pimp story analysts are now available for one on one development meetings with writers. It is a two-hour long meeting, in LA or by phone, in which your analyst will go through your script with you line by line. Feel free to come with a list of questions to be addressed, and steer the conversation in any direction you wish. Our analyst will read the script twice before the meeting, and come with his/her own notes. If the script is at the point that it should be shopped around town, we will give you concrete suggestions as to where the screenplay has the best chance, and the companies that would most likely be interested in the material. The cost is $550 for Script P.I.M.P. Writers Database members, and $650 for non-members.
If you would like to pay and set up an appointment please call Matt at 310.401.1155 between 10am and 6pm, (P.S.T.) to coordinate payment and appointments.
=============================================== (11) Screenwriter Resources =============================================== Featured Site: 4 Screenwriters http://www.4screenwriters.com/
UPCOMING ONLINE CLASSES:
* Thriller Screenwriting Techniques (4-week) * How to Write A Hollywood Blockbuster! (4-week) * The Screenwriter as Independent Filmmaker (8-week)
New Site to check out: HollyNorth
Young, Hollywood visionaries unite to launch The HollyNorth Project to give talented writers throughout the US and Canada wide access to Hollywood. Thousands of screenwriters move to LA every year vying for the attention of just a handful of studio executives, producers and agents. Having a great script is essential, but getting your masterpiece into the right hands is what really matters. HollyNorth gets your script into the right hands. If you have a truly unique and engaging voice and want access to Hollywood's movers and shakers, look no further. Visit http://www.hollynorth.org No fee. No deadlines.
* * * * * FIVE STAR WEBSITES FOR SCREENWRITERS * * * * *
Here's a guide through the screenwriting community with Script Pimp's list of FIVE STAR WEBSITES for screenwriters. If there's a site you'd like to request to be added to the list please email russ@scriptpimp.com
NETWORKING SITES:
American Zoetrope http://www.zoetrope.com/
Screenwriters Federation of America http://www.screenwritersfederation.org/phpBB2/
=============================================== (10) Summary of Script Pimp services ===============================================
May 15th is the FINAL 2008 Competition deadline! http://www.scriptpimp.com/writing_competition/home.cfm
May 15th is the 2008 Script Pimp TV Contest deadline http://www.scriptpimp.com/tv/home.cfm
*Screenwriting Competition Home Page: http://www.scriptpimp.com/writing_competition/home.cfm
The 2008 Script Pimp Competition is searching for the best stories told by the best screenwriters demonstrating the best craft, each screenplay entered is guaranteed two (2) reads from the Script Pimp panel of judges. Composed of working literary agents, literary managers and development directors from the film industry, past winners have optioned, signed with A-level agents and sold for six-figures!
Final Deadline (through Without a Box): May 15th, 2008
TV Contest Deadline: May 15th
*Writers Database Home Page: http://www.scriptpimp.com/writers_database/index_wdb.cfm
Script Pimp's Writers Database features the current needs and submission guidelines for over 1,000 total company listings, 300 film production companies and agencies accepting material from new screenwriters. 242 active query accounts provide writers the access to query producers and agents.
*Writers Workshop Home Page: http://www.scriptpimp.com/script_coverage/index_ww2.cfm
Script Pimp's Writers Workshop provides screenwriters with A-level development notes and consultations. A professional reader with extensive experience in development and creative analysis will write detailed notes, 4-6 pages long, for $250, giving you a comprehensive review of the strengths and weaknesses of your screenplay. There is also an Overall Review option at a discounted rate. With a grade of "recommend", Script Pimp will assist you in circulating your work to agents, managers, and producers at no charge. We also offer free follow-up questions with your evaluator in the hopes of getting your project ready for the marketplace.
Over the past few years, a number of writers have seen their work optioned or sold through our Workshop process.
*Talent Pimp Home Page: http://www.talentpimp.com
Acting anyone? Talent Pimp concentrates its tools and resources for actors and actresses, complete with our own knowledge base of the industry, updated detailed listings for 550+ agents, 700+ managers and 550+ casting directors. Talent Pimp is now available to working and aspiring professional actors for a fee of $35 for 1-year of unlimited access. Build your own professional page and upload your resume, headshots and demo reel.
Best,
Chadwick Clough Script P.I.M.P. (Pipeline Into Motion Pictures) 8033 W. Sunset Blvd. #3000, Hollywood, CA 90046 p. 310.401.1155 newsletter@scriptpimp.com www.scriptpimp.com
To subscribe to this newsletter: http://www.scriptpimp.com/subscribe
To unsubscribe to this great free monthly newsletter click here: http://www.scriptpimp.com/unsubscribe
To visit Script Pimp's Home Page click here: http://www.scriptpimp.com
Script Pimp April Newsletter 04/24/08
Free
SCRIPT PIMP APRIL NEWSLETTER (http://www.scriptpimp.com)
While the studios are still trying to find their footing post-writer's strike and possibly pre-actor's strike, spec sales flew off the handle in March with over 70 recorded sales. The most notable sale was from first-time writer Brad Ingelsby, who at the time of the sale, was living with his parents in Pennsylvania and working as an insurance salesman. His dark thriller The Low Dwellers, sold to Relativity Media in a deal valued at $650,000 against $1 million. The script, in the vein of NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN, is about a man trying to assimilate into society after he's released from jail, only to find someone from his past pursuing him to settle a score. The deal was set up by Energy's Brooklyn Weaver and Adam Marshall. Leonardo DiCaprio is attached to star, with Ridley Scott attached as director. Other notable sales include the spec thriller Hereafter, written by Peter Morgan, (THE QUEEN), for low six figures against mid-six figures from Dreamworks. Craig Brewer. HUSTLE AND FLOW, will direct and adapt GANG LEADER FOR A DAY, for Paramount Vantage.
New Script Pimp TV Contest! This year Script Pimp has launched a new TV division. We'll be accepting pilots, sitcoms, one-hour dramas, and reality shows.
Script Pimp TV Contest 05.15.08 http://www.scriptpimp.com/tv/home.cfm
The Writers Place 05.01.08 http://www.thewritersplace.org/screenplay_contest.shtml
================================= (3) Industry: Act II by Paula Brancato =================================
WRITING A STRONG ACT II by Paula Brancato USC Professor and Writers Place Co-founder http://www.thewritersplace.org/script_consultation.shtml brancato@usc.edu When we last left Ed, our protagonist, at the end of ACT I, his life was forever changed. There he was just bumbling along in his everyday normal circumstances when voila! he locked eyes with a gorgeous supermodel and fell eternally in love. Trouble is Ed is 5'5' standing on a phonebook, wears coke bottle glasses, has a tenure track job at Crispy Chicken and can't even approach a girl without stuttering and tripping all over himself. Let alone through a sea of well-heeled competitors. All of that is about to change -- or at least he is going to try to change all of that. Struck by lightning, he is about to go after what he wants. Trouble is, he is going to do it in the way he always does, because he is Ed after all, getting deeper and deeper into trouble, until he is almost as far away from his goal as he can be. This is the essential nature of all Act II's, the chase for the holy grail. ACT II (40 to 60 pages), the longest portion of the screenplay, shows Ed pursuing his goal -- the "solution" to all his problems -- as the antagonist attempts to stop him. Perhaps Ed has a competitor? Perhaps the antagonist is the girl herself. Ed will pursue her, nevertheless, through increasing obstacles and midpoint complications to a dramatic climax, which occurs generally near the end of Act II. Throughout Act II the audience will experience (relative to the climax) a slow build, rising and falling, rising higher and falling, leading us again and again to the point of Ed's maximum peril or conflict. This would be where Ed hits bottom. Indeed, near the end of Act II, at the climax, poor Ed will be about as far from achieving his goal as possible. He will be tied up in a shack, naked in the forest, 200 miles from anywhere, the antagonist setting the shack on fire. He will be tossed out of his apartment and job, his car and dog repossessed, his handsome, rich, but wily, arch nemesis slipping a ring on his intended's finger. He will be locked out of the church, the wedding to another man in already progress. First, the build, where most writers get into trouble. The build is a series of incidents where the lead character seems to get or tries to get what he wants (his false hope) but every time he gets or comes near it, he actually gets deeper and deeper into conflict. During this process, the lead character is highly active, even if he is strapped to a chair. Passive protagonists make for lousy stories. Whatever happens to poor Ed, it is important that he act. His actions reveal the story occurring inside him.
Maybe Ed gets the girl, initially. Maybe she is really really fond of Crispy Chicken. Ed's story may be: I have a nice girl but she makes me feel insecure instead of powerful. She's so nice she doesn't care I don't spend money. It makes me feel guilty and I don't like that so I treat her bad. But then I feel bad, and I don't like that either. So I placate her with money. I hate to spend money. But now, she expects me to spend money.
In fact, she only loves me for my money. I will set up a test -- which of course she won't fail -- to see if she really loves me. And another and another. But every one of those thoughts, or plot points, needs a scene full of action to show the internal progression of the character. (You can already see the story can be written many ways.) To recap, in Act II, our hero tries and tries, using his old flawed methodology, to defeat or subdue the antagonist and get what he wants. Other characters help or hinder, with story arcs, needs, etc. of their own. These subplots support the plot and symbolize various aspects of the hero's struggle. The hero's problem, as the writer moves through Act II, gets worse and worse and worse, because he is still using old methodology, even as he believes he is closer and closer to a solution - to getting what he wants. The hero thinks he has the answer, but reality is saying, "No, go." At the midpoint, around page 50 or 60 in the screenplay, the crisis deepens, there can even be a switchabout or two or three - KILL BILL has a nice midpoint complication in its very long second act, regarding the Bride's baby and occurring at the end of the first film. In the typical screenplay, however, by around page 80, our hero must face that his method has failed. In Ed's case, perhaps he can't take it anymore - her niceness (egads, she is actually in love with him!) and strikes out or does something heinous to escape his false solution. (I'll show her. I'm gonna sleep with her best friend. So there!) This is the point where the audience says "No, don't do it!" knowing full well the character will proceed. Or perhaps the girl gets fed up and leaves, which affects him more than expected. Or he throws her out then his best friend steals her away. And it matters. Now, Ed is really really in deep muck and will have to sacrifice something big to get out of it. Usually, this something big symbolizes his entire prior way of being. He has to do things differently now and be born again to truly succeed. In effect, he must make a dramatic change, shown with specific action. He could give up peanut butter but that is probably not enough. In DIE HARD, the hero comes to grips with love and what really matters. In GOOD AS IT GETS, the Jack Nicholson character does the same while the woman learns to accept his imperfections. In AN OFFICER AND A GENTLEMAN, the lead character shows he's becomes both. After the devastating (or euphoric) climax, there is a brief hiatus, hopefully, where Ed wakes up in a cold sweat and sees an answer, which isn't anything he thought about or was willing to do before and realizes this is what he now must do. (Oh, my god -- it's me that's the screw-up -- the screwed-upness is inside of me! I really really LOVED her!) Alas, but at this climax, poor Ed is tied up in a shack, naked in the forest, 200 miles from anywhere, the antagonist setting the shack on fire.
Or tossed out of his apartment and job, his car and dog repossessed, his handsome, rich, but wily, arch nemesis slipping a ring on his intended's finger. Or be locked out of the church, the wedding to another man in already progress.
Next newsletter we will discuss how we get him out of this mess -- or not. That is called the resolution of the screenplay and constitutes Act III. by Paula Brancato USC Professor and Writers Place Co-founder http://www.thewritersplace.org/script_consultation.shtml brancato@usc.edu
Email your entry, send us a hard-copy or use Without a Box!
4 scripts optioned from 2006 and 2007! 7 writers gained representation.
Past winner, SLAMMIN' sold for to Warner Brothers for six-figures!
Over 60 companies have requested to read the top Script Pimp's top 20 finalists for 2008.
"For the 6th straight year I join the pack hungry to read the Script Pimp finalists ." Colin O'Reilly, Co-Producer of "Blades of Glory"
"We are once again looking forward to reading the 2008 Script Pimp finalists as it is one of the highest quality of contests in town with an excellent track record in discovering new talent." Jake Wagner, Manager (Energy Entertainment)
"The Script Pimp Contest is an excellent opportunity for undiscovered or unread writers to get read by industry professionals. I'm very excited to be a part of this event again this year." Andrew Kersey, Manager (Kersey Management)
At the box office, Will Ferrell scored the number one spot with his hoop comedy SEMI-PRO. Film opened softly at 15M- the film's R-rating most likely affected ticket sales. VANTAGE POINT held onto second place with a solid 12.8M cume. Paramount's THE SPIDERWICK'S CHRONICLES also held strong taking third place at $8.7M. In the second weekend, pre-historic adventure 10,000 B.C. shot to the top spot with a stellar $35M cume. Kiddie pic COLLEGE ROAD TRIP grossed $13M for Martin Lawrence and Disney. Sony's VANTAGE POINT again held strong in third place with $7M. In the third weekend, animated DR. Seus pic HORTON HEARS A WHO opened huge with $45M for Fox. The opening was the biggest thus far in 2008. Film was budgeted at $85M. 10,000 B.C. took a hit but held onto second place with nearly $17M. The martial arts actioner NEVER BACK DOWN debuted in third place with a modest $8M opening. Family films dominated Easter weekend as HORTON again took the top spot with $24M. Tyler Perry's MEET THE BROWNS was runner-up with an excellent $20M opening. Debuting in third place, Fox's horror pic SHUTTER took in $10.4 million. Owen Wilson's DRILLBIT TAYLOR opened to a mediocre fourth place at just over $10M.
================================= (6) Ask the Script Pimp Expert =================================
What do readers, development directors, story analysts & story editors do?
Script readers are people who are paid (or not in the case of interns) to read and evaluate incoming projects. Having read the script, readers then write "coverage" for the project which consists of a logline, 1-2 pages of synopsis and 1-2 pages of comments evaluating everything from concept, to plot, to structure, to character, to dialogue. Story analyst is the preferred name for script readers, but their jobs may be as complex as having to come up with character breakdowns for casting purposes.
Development directors are generally the bottom of the line at a given production company. Their job is to find projects their company will want to make, or writers their company will want to work with, and having done that, they will be promoted to the very important job of VP of Development and/or possibly even be attached as a producer on the projects they find. Story editors work like script readers/story analysts, but their focus is on working with the writer to iron out the rough spots on the scripts. They may also be the person below the Director of Development who may or may not also find projects for their company. As this is an entry level position, story editors generally work for quite a while with their superiors learning the craft of screenwriting and understanding what it takes to get a project ready for production. Along those lines, it may be quite a while before they finally find a project that is worthy of consideration by those above them.
"I felt the reader took the time and expended the effort to properly understand and evaluate the story. I have used another coverage service with another script, and was shocked at the sloppy written review I received, and was angered that the reader referenced story events that never took place. Much of the coverage was rambling, and excerpts from my script were cut and pasted for filler. The Script Pimp coverage I received was the complete opposite. The recommendations were very insightful, and I got a sense the reader actually wanted my script to succeed. I will be re-submitting this script and am optimistic about its results." -Greg Porter (March, 2008)
I see what you are getting on these couple scenes and i am going to get to work on it over the weekend and then I should have a new polish for you to take a look at, and thanks for caring enough to help me make this script the best it can possible be. -Scott Parisien (March, 2008)
Script Pimp's feature film "The Living Wake" reviewed by Variety http://www.scriptpimp.com/newsletters/variety.cfm
View all Script Pimp Press http://www.scriptpimp.com/features/creative_screenwriting.cfm
If you're a writer trying to break into Hollywood you've got to watch this: Peter Bart's Sunday Morning Shootout - "How to get a script recognized" -click the link in the top right hand corner of Script Pimp's home page: www.scriptpimp.com
================================= (9) Five Star Websites for Screenwriters =================================
Here's a guide through the screenwriting community with Script Pimp's list of FIVE STAR WEBSITES for screenwriters. If there's a site you'd like to request to be added to the list please email russ@scriptpimp.com
* * * * * FIVE STAR WEBSITES FOR SCREENWRITERS * * * * *
NETWORKING SITES:
American Zoetrope http://www.zoetrope.com/
Screenwriters Federation of America http://www.screenwritersfederation.org/phpBB2/
=============================================== (10) Summary of Script Pimp services ===============================================
30 DAYS until the 2008 Competition deadline! http://www.scriptpimp.com/writing_competition/home.cfm
45 DAYS until the 2008 Script Pimp TV Contest deadline http://www.scriptpimp.com/tv/home.cfm
*Screenwriting Competition Home Page: http://www.scriptpimp.com/writing_competition/home.cfm
The 2008 Script Pimp Competition will open soon! Searching for the best stories told by the best screenwriters demonstrating the best craft, each screenplay entered is guaranteed two (2) reads from the Script Pimp panel of judges. Composed of working literary agents, literary managers and development directors from the film industry, past winners have optioned, signed with A-level agents and sold for six-figures!
Final Deadline: $50 (May 1st, 2008)
*Writers Database Home Page: http://www.scriptpimp.com/writers_database/index_wdb.cfm
The Writers Database features the current needs and submission guidelines for over 1,000 total company listings, 300 film production companies and agencies accepting material from new screenwriters. 242 active query accounts provide writers the access to query producers and agents.
*Writers Workshop Home Page: http://www.scriptpimp.com/script_coverage/index_ww2.cfm
Script P.I.M.P.'s Writers Workshop provides screenwriters with A-level development notes and consultations. A professional story analyst will write extensive notes, 4-6 pages long for $250, giving you a detailed review of the strengths and weaknesses of your screenplay. With a grade of "recommend" Script Pimp will assist you in circulating your work to agents, managers and producers at no charge.
*Talent Pimp Home Page: http://www.talentpimp.com
Acting anyone? Talent Pimp concentrates its tools and resources for actors and actresses, complete with our own knowledge base of the industry, updated detailed listings for 550+ agents, 700+ managers and 550+ casting directors. Talent Pimp is now available to working and aspiring professional actors for a fee of $35 for 1-year of unlimited access. Build your own professional page and upload your resume, headshots and demo reel.
Best,
Chadwick Clough Script P.I.M.P. (Pipeline Into Motion Pictures) 8033 W. Sunset Blvd. #3000, Hollywood, CA 90046 p. 310.401.1155 newsletter@scriptpimp.com
*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** 30 DAYS until the 2008 Script Pimp Competition deadline! http://www.scriptpimp.com/writing_competition/home.cfm
45 DAYS until the 2008 Script Pimp TV Contest deadline! http://www.scriptpimp.com/tv/home.cfm
*** *** *** *** *** *** *** *** To subscribe to this newsletter: http://www.scriptpimp.com/subscribe
To unsubscribe to this great free monthly newsletter: http://www.scriptpimp.com/unsubscribe
To visit Script Pimp's Home Page: http://www.scriptpimp.com
Special Offer 04/22/08
Free
Join the Writers Database from April 23rd through May 1st and you'll receive two (2) additional years to your membership along with a FREE entry into the 2008 Screenwriting Competition.
Script Pimp January 2008 Newsletter 01/03/08
Free
SCRIPT PIMP JANUARY NEWSLETTER (http://www.scriptpimp.com)
Contents:
(1) Script Sales Report (December 2007) (2) Script Pimp Success Story: Mahon's Script Produced (3) Upcoming Contests (4) Strike Report (5) Box Office Report (December 2007) (6) Ask the Script Pimp Expert (7) Writers Workshop Feedback (8) Circus of Joy- Comedy Show - Thursday, Jan 24th (9) Five Star Websites for Screenwriters (10) Script Pimp in the News (11) Summary of Script Pimp Services
The 2008 International Script Pimp Competition is open for submissions: http://www.scriptpimp.com/writing_competition/home.cfm
Need to find an agent? The Writers Database puts the film industry at your fingertips: http://www.scriptpimp.com/writers_database/index_wdb.cfm
Looking for A-level feedback on your screenplay? Turn around time about 1-5 business days: http://www.scriptpimp.com/script_coverage/index_ww2.cfm
On Christmas Eve, THE SECRET LIFE OF BEES, Adapted by Gina Prince-Bythewood, was sold to The Donners' Company and Overbrook Entertainment- to be produced with Fox Searchlight. Attached to star: QUEEN LATIFAH, JENNIFER HUDSON, DAKOTA FANNING, ALICIA KEYS, and SOPHIE OKONEDO. Also this month, yet another in the Terminator series, TERMINATOR SALVATION: THE FUTURE BEGINS, to be produced by Halcyon Co. with Warner Brothers. SUGAR, by Anna Boden to be produced by HBO Films, Journeyman Pictures and Hunting Lane Films also sold this month. THE THACKER CASE, based on a true-life story of the wrongful death case of Kevin Thacker, adapted by Stuart Pepper and Robert Dean Klein, sold to Roberts/David Films. MISSION: INTOLERABLE, a comedy about a wannabe CIA agent was purchased from writers Steven List, Astrid Neal, Fax Bahr, and Adam Small by the Weinstein Company and Our Stories Films. THE RITE, a drama about a priest studying exorcism in Italy, written by Matt Baglio and Michael Petroni, to be produced by Beau Flynn and Tripp Vinson.
In 2006 Mark Mahon submitted and re-submitted his spec script "Strength & Honor" to Script Pimp's Writers Workshop. Now it's a completed feature film starring Michael Madsen (Kill Bill), and winning awards on the indy circuit.
Entertainment Today gave it 4 stars. Here's an excerpt from Los Angeles Loyolan Review (December 2007)
"Strength and Honor" suits perfectly for drama fanatics who either do or don't have an interest in boxing. The film has such a compelling story filled with courage, perseverance and friendship that it was awarded for Best Film at the 2007 Boston Film Festival as well. This is a great feat considering it was Mahon's directorial debut, but there was still no doubt that his film would do well.
For more info visit: http://www.maronpictures.net/
Even with the new year, there still seems to be a standstill between the Writers Guild of America and the Alliance of Motion Picture & Television Producers. With the strike so far costing writers over $150 million dollars in lost wages, writers have now lost more than the WGA's negotiations had hoped to gain. Some good news in case you didn't hear, the WGA worked a deal with David Letterman's production company that puts his show and The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson back on the air.
For more information visit http://wga.org/
=============================================== (5) Box Office Report (December 2007) =============================================== NATIONAL TREASURE: BOOK OF SECRETS finished the month with a winning weekend of $35 million, and a total of $124 million after just being in theaters for two weeks. With an opening weekend of $77 million, I AM LEGEND was the winner for the holiday season though with a total three week gross of $194 million. ALVIN AND THE CHIPMUNKS did well also this month with an opening weekend of $44 million, and a total gross today of $141 million.
=============================================== (6) Ask the Script Pimp Expert ===============================================
Q. I am writing a spec script that involves teenage kids in a rock band. My tendency is to have the characters covering songs by known artists. My concern is that this will throw up a red flag with a reader as being too expensive to produce or appear amateurish. Since music is a central part of the plot do I simply suggest a musical mood or feeling when the band is playing a song?
A. Absolutely, your instincts on this are 100% correct. If you mention too many specific songs it could well make a potential buyer nervous, particularly if the songs are so integral to the story that one might not be able to imagine it being made without them. Much better to simply state a type of song – like ‘TECHNO pounds from the speakers’ or ‘the band plays a soulful indie ballad’ - so as not to scare anyone off. Music rights can be extremely expensive and might make the budget appear prohibitive. But additionally if your reader doesn’t know a particular song, the effect will be lost anyway.
When you go into a meeting about the script you can always talk more specifically about the music you have imagined for each scene.
We hope this helps,
Your Script P.I.M.P. Expert
Join the Writers Database and have your specific questions answered. http://www.scriptpimp.com/writers_database/index_wdb.cfm
=============================================== (7) Writers Workshop Feedback from December 2007 ===============================================
"THANKS so much for taking so much answering my questions and making further comments on my script. I REALLY APPRECIATE IT." -Lynne Logan
"Thank you so much for the notes. I’m very pleased and relieved!" -Dimetri Manolatos
"You guys are great, the comments are always awesome and intuitive, and even when you see something wrong, you give suggestions on where the story could be read. By far the best service I've ever dealt with, thanks again!
My evaluator's understanding of your story: 10 My evaluator's ability to provide useful constructive criticism: 10 My overall experience with Script Pimp to date: 13 1/2" -Philip Samuelson
=============================================== (8) Circus of Joy- Comedy Show - Thursday, January 24th, 10pm ===============================================
Members of Script Pimp's newsletter get on the free guest list by emailing tickets@scriptpimp.com. Seats are limited and you will receive an email back once you've been added to the guest list.
Jan 24th - 10pm - CIRCUS OF JOY comedy show w/ Mike O'Connell
HOLLYWOOD IMPROV - 8162 Melrose Avenue. (cross street Crescent Heights)
And be sure to check out three more Conrad Besselheimer webisodes:
Produced by Script Pimp's Chadwick Clough (NOTE: not safe for work)
http://www.funnyordie.com/videos/e58bc1e281
http://www.funnyordie.com/videos/44ac6d5e24
http://www.funnyordie.com/videos/dbea26f01a
=============================================== (9) Five Star Websites for Screenwriters =============================================== Here's a guide through the screenwriting community with Script Pimp's list of FIVE STAR WEBSITES for screenwriters. If there's a site you'd like to request to be added to the list please email russ@scriptpimp.com
* * * * * FIVE STAR WEBSITES FOR SCREENWRITERS * * * * NETWORKING SITES:
American Zoetrope http://www.zoetrope.com/
Screenwriters Federation of America http://www.screenwritersfederation.org/phpBB2/
=============================================== (10) Script Pimp in the News ===============================================
View all Script Pimp Press http://www.scriptpimp.com/features/creative_screenwriting.cfm Script Pimp's feature film "The Living Wake" reviewed by Variety http://www.scriptpimp.com/newsletters/variety.cfm
Script Pimp on TV (Peter Bart's Sunday Morning Shootout) http://movies.yahoo.com/mv/mf/frame?theme=sms&lid=wmv-56-p.1368820-149798,wm v-100-p.1368821-149798,wmv-300-p.1368822-149798,wmv-700-p.1368823-149798&p=m ovies&c=p3&.skin=movies&f=76362974
=============================================== (11) Summary of Script Pimp Services =============================================== *Screenwriting Competition Home Page: http://www.scriptpimp.com/writing_competition/home.cfm
The 2008 Script Pimp Competition call for submissions! Searching for the best stories told by the best screenwriters demonstrating the best craft, each screenplay entered is guaranteed two (2) reads from the Script Pimp panel of judges. Composed of working literary agents, literary managers and development directors from the film industry, past winners have optioned, signed with A-level agents and sold for six-figures!
Final Deadline: $50 (May 1st, 2008)
*Writers Database Home Page: http://www.scriptpimp.com/writers_database/index_wdb.cfm
The Writers Database features the current needs and submission guidelines for over 1,000 total company listings, 300 film production companies and agencies accepting material from new screenwriters. 242 active query accounts provide writers the access to query producers and agents. Sign up for the Writers Database and enter one script to our 2008 contest free!
*Writers Workshop Home Page: http://www.scriptpimp.com/script_coverage/index_ww2.cfm
Script P.I.M.P.'s Writers Workshop provides screenwriters with A-level development notes and consultations. A professional story analyst will write extensive notes, 4-6 pages long for $225, giving you a detailed review of the strengths and weaknesses of your screenplay. With a grade of "recommend" Script Pimp will assist you in circulating your work to agents, managers and producers at no charge.
Best,
Chadwick Clough Script P.I.M.P. (Pipeline Into Motion Pictures) 8033 W. Sunset Blvd. #3000, Hollywood, CA 90046 p. 310.401.1155 info@scriptpimp.com www.scriptpimp.com
To visit Script Pimp's Home Page click here: http://www.scriptpimp.com
C. WESLEY PICTURES HAS UPDATED THEIR SUBMISSION PREFERENCES 12/19/07
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4 FUN FILMS HAS UPDATED THEIR SUBMISSION PREFERENCES 12/17/07
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SCRIPT PIMP PRODUCTIONS HAS ADDED THEIR SUBMISSION PREFERENCES 09/09/07
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4 FUN FILMS HAS ADDED THEIR SUBMISSION PREFERENCES 09/09/07
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SHOWOFF ENTERTAINMENT HAS UPDATED THEIR SUBMISSION PREFERENCES 08/18/07
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NEPTUNE PICTURES HAS UPDATED THEIR SUBMISSION PREFERENCES 08/18/07
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Jeff Belkin requests Finalists 08/17/07
Free
Jeff Belkin of Foremost Films requests 2007 Finalist script.
COLOSSAL ENTERTAINMENT HAS UPDATED THEIR SUBMISSION PREFERENCES 08/15/07
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Script Pimp August 2007 Newsletter 08/04/07
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SCRIPT P.I.M.P. AUGUST NEWSLETTER (http://www.scriptpimp.com)
Contents:
(1) 2007 Script Pimp Screenwriting Competition Winners Announced! (2) Script Sales Report (July 07) (3) Script Contest Deadlines Approaching (4) Ask the Script Pimp Expert (5) Quick summary of Script Pimp's Workshop and Database (6) Five Star Websites for Screenwriters
MUST SEE: Funny or Die's Hot List http://www.funnyordie.com/videos/hot The Will Ferrell site just added Mike O'Connell's 'What's it Gonna Be?'
SPECIAL DISCOUNT: Receive $25 off DEVELOPMENT NOTES from our Workshop http://www.scriptpimp.com/script_coverage/index_ww2.cfm
NO AGENT, NO MANAGER, NO PROBLEM. Contact agents through our Database: http://www.scriptpimp.com/writers%5Fdatabase/index_wdb.cfm
From 1,206 total entries, congratulations to the four grand prize winners of the 2007 Script Pimp Competition! The next deadline will be May 1st, 2008.
Title: FUEL Authors: James Roman & Chris Donaldson Logline: A true story: Oil production halts in 1970s Iran when an American executive negotiates an oil-for-weapons deal with the Shah; Capitalism clashes with Islam as Tehran’s terrorists-in-training make demands of them both.
Title: LIVING IN LIMBO Author: Mike Amato Logline: The "survivors" of a zombie attack receive medicine that prevents them from fully mutating, only to discover that society has little use for the undead.
Title: MONSTROUS PASSIONS Author: Deborah Baxtrom Logline: A witty, sexy Frankenstein’s Monster takes us on a journey through the tragic life of his creator, teenage author Mary Shelley.
Title: THE RISE OF FRED AMAZING Author: Scott Cunningham Logline: An alcoholic superhero is pulled out of retirement to face his lifelong nemesis and redeem his past.
For industry requests of the winners and finalists please email russ@scriptpimp.com.
Thanks again to everyone who entered!
Competition Home Page: http://www.scriptpimp.com/writing_competition/home.cfm
Script deals slowed modestly in the month of July, despite the prediction that studios would be stockpiling scripts in anticipation of a possible fall writer's strike. Spec sales took a dip, accounting for less than 15 percent of all deals. Comic book deals nearly topped spec sales, as the genre seems to have hit an all-time high. In general, adaptations reigned, accounted for nearly 60%, while pitches were scant. Notable sales include two musicals- NINE based on the Broadway music which was based on Fellini's 8 1/2, and FOOTLOOSE to be released by Paramount and starring Zac Efron. Sports drama BARBARO, horse bio-pic on the Kentucky Derby winner, written by Buzz Bissinger (FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS), will be directed by his cousin Peter Berg. A remake of the Dickens classic A CHRISTMAS CAROL will star Jim Carrey playing the parts of Scrooge and the three ghosts. Script to be directed by Rob Zemeckis. Look for sales to slow down in August, as the industry takes their summer vacation.
American Zoetrope Screenplay Contest 09.04.07 http://www.zoetrope.com/contests
ASA International Screenplay Competition 10.31.07 http://www.goasa.com/competition.shtml
Hollywood Nexus Screenwriting Contest 11.21.07 http://www.HollywoodNexus.com/ScreenwritingContest.php
======================================= (4) Ask the Script Pimp Expert =======================================
Q. Hi, I remember reading somewhere that the standard payment to a screenwriter is 5% of the total movie budget. Is that accurate?
Answer. Actually a typical union-based writer¹s fee usually works out at around 2-3% of the budget. However, depending on the circumstances it could be less or more. For instance, a writer with a track record of several box office hits would definitely command more money that a writer who has never sold a script before.
Q. I was recently contacted by a development assistant, expressing interest in my screenplay. Should I be looking for an agent at this point?
A. Well that's great news - but don't panic about not having an agent right now. Just send your script out and see what reaction it gets. If someone comes back to you serious about optioning or buying the script, you can get an agent on board then - or even just an entertainment attorney. It will be much easier to get an agent’s attention if you can say you have an offer on the table. The producer or production company might even be able to help you with this.
Q. I have the next Hollywood blockbuster, how do I get an agent, manager or producer?
A. At this stage you need to do some work in order to present this material according to professional Hollywood standards. The first thing to remember is that agents, producers and production companies are experienced in judging ideas and screenplays. All they want you to do is to lay out the story and then they will decide whether or not they are interested in reading the script. Do not include any illustrations, graphics, references to songs etc. with any of your submissions. Do not refer to the people you would like to cast in the lead roles - this is a production concern and the writer has no say in this area. In order to approach an agent, producer etc., you first need to put together a query letter. Keep query letters as brief as possible. Agents, producers and prod co's get hundreds of letters a week. The more concise you are, the more likely someone will actually read your letter. Make the synopsis of the story as interesting as possible. The aim is to intrigue the reader enough to read the whole script. Don't include self-promotional sentences like "don't miss this exciting opportunity" or "this film will be a blockbuster." People tend to be put off by being told what they should like. Also, like your script, the story synopsis should speak for itself. However, before sending off query letters, be sure that your screenplay also conforms to professional standards. Make sure there are no spelling or grammatical mistakes. Consult with screenwriting books. Make sure your screenplay is correctly formatted in 12pt Courier font with proper margins. Read as many produced screenplays as you can to get a feel for current writing standards. Once you feel confident you screenplay is as good as you can make it, consider submitting it to our script coverage service for some professional feedback. Most people will only consider a story once, so you need to send your best work possible.
We hope this helps,
Your Script P.I.M.P. Expert Script P.I.M.P. (Pipeline Into Motion Pictures) 8033 W. Sunset Blvd. #3000, Hollywood, CA 90046 (d) 310-401-1155 (f) 310-564-2021 notes@scriptpimp.com www.scriptpimp.com
*Join our Writers Database and we'll answer your specific screenwriting questions.
======================================= (5) Quick summary of Script Pimp Services =======================================
* WRITERS DATABASE HOME PAGE: http://www.scriptpimp.com/writers_database/index_wdb.cfm
The Writers Database features the current needs and submission guidelines for over 1,000 total company listings, 300 film production companies and agencies accepting material from new screenwriters. 242 active query accounts provide writers the access to query producers and agents today!
Manual Order Form for the Workshop: http://www.scriptpimp.com/documents/order_forms/Writers_Database_Order_Form. pdf
* WRITERS WORKSHOP HOME PAGE: http://www.scriptpimp.com/script_coverage/index_ww2.cfm
Script P.I.M.P.'s Writers Workshop provides screenwriters with A-level development notes and consultations. A professional story analyst will write extensive notes, 3-6 pages long for $225, giving you a detailed review of the strengths and weaknesses of your screenplay. With a grade of "recommend" Script Pimp will assist you in circulating your work to agents, managers and producers at no charge.
Manual Submission Form for the Workshop: http://www.scriptpimp.com/documents/WorkshopOrderForm-Agreement-2007.pdf
* SCREENWRITING COMPETITION HOME PAGE: http://www.scriptpimp.com/writing_competition/home.cfm
The early deadline for the 2008 Script Pimp Competition deadline is January 15th, 2008. Final deadline will be May 1st, 2008. Composed of working literary agents, literary managers and development directors from the film industry, past winners have optioned, signed with A-level agents and sold for six-figures! To receive a registration
* TALENT PIMP HOME PAGE: http://www.talentpimp.com
Talent P.I.M.P. is owned and operated by Script P.I.M.P., LLC. Talent P.I.M.P. is our latest and most extensive project. While Script P.I.M.P. remains focused on writers and literary professionals, Talent P.I.M.P. concentrates its tools and resources for actors and actresses, complete with our own knowledge base of the industry, updated and detailed listings for 550+ agents, 700+ managers and 550+ casting directors. Talent Pimp is now available to working and aspiring professional actors for a fee of $35 for 1-year of unlimited access. Build your own professional page and upload images.
For information on any Script Pimp services email russ@scriptpimp.com.
======================================= (6) Five Star Websites for Screenwriters =======================================
Here's a guide through the screenwriting community with Script Pimp's list of FIVE STAR WEBSITES for screenwriters. If there's a site you'd like to request to be added to the list please email russ@scriptpimp.com
AUGUST SPOTLIGHT SITE: InkTip
InkTip.com is designed for writers to place their work online. Recommended writers from Script Pimp's Writers Workshop are featured in InkTip's select 'positive coverage' section. Only industry professionals who are registered and are verified can get into the site, as it is password protected. Recently Starz Media optioned the feature script 'Columbine Trail' by Caroline Friday. To join: http://www.InkTip.com
* * * * FIVE STAR WEBSITES FOR SCREENWRITERS * * * *
Chadwick Clough Script P.I.M.P. (Pipeline Into Motion Pictures) 8033 W. Sunset Blvd. #3000, Hollywood, CA 90046 newsletter@scriptpimp.com www.scriptpimp.com
To visit Script Pimp's Home Page click here: http://www.scriptpimp.com
HI-DEF ENTERTAINMENT HAS UPDATED THEIR SUBMISSION PREFERENCES 08/03/07
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NEW FILMS INTERNATIONAL HAS ADDED THEIR SUBMISSION PREFERENCES 08/02/07
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Energy Entertainment has requested to review the finalists 08/01/07
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William Morris Agency has requested to review the finalists 08/01/07
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MENLO PARK PRODUCTIONS HAS ADDED THEIR SUBMISSION PREFERENCES 07/31/07
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ELEMENTS ENTERTAINMENT HAS ADDED THEIR SUBMISSION PREFERENCES 07/31/07
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SMASHTUBE HAS ADDED THEIR SUBMISSION PREFERENCES 07/26/07
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RADMIN COMPANY, THE HAS UPDATED THEIR SUBMISSION PREFERENCES 07/25/07
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Script Pimp's "The Living Wake" Gets Raving Reviews 07/06/07
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1. The Living Wake on CineVegas: http://cinevegas.bside.com/?_view=_filmdetails&filmId=22116671
Sol Tryon¹s The Living Wake garnered the Heineken Red Star Award. A dark comedy set in a storybook universe, The Living Wake chronicles the final day of K. Roth Binew, a quixotic character who attempts to probe life¹s great mysteries before his final hour.
The Heineken Red Star Award recognizes films that push the boundaries of creativity and provide a unique vision and execution; this award was created in an effort to promote up-and-coming filmmakers by providing additional exposure and visibility for their films. To this end, Heineken has partnered with two venerable media partners Variety and the Independent Film Channel (IFC) to bring well-deserved publicity and visibility to the Heineken Red Star Award recipients and their films.
2. The Living Wake Variety http://www.variety.com/review/VE1117933902.html?categoryid=31&cs=1
The Living Wake By ROBERT KOEHLER An Original Media presentation in association with Drops Entertainment, Script Pimp, MonAmi Prods. (International sales: Shoreline Entertainment, Los Angeles.) Produced by Ami Ankin, Chadwick Clough, Peter Kline, Mike O'Connell, Sol Tryon. Executive producers, Charlie Corwin, Clara Markowitz, Justin Leitstein, Rob Bethge. Co-producers, Gabe Polsky, Giancarlo Canavesio. Directed by Sol Tryon. Screenplay, Mike O'Connell, Peter Kine. K. Roth Binew - Mike O'Connell Mills Joaquin - Jesse Eisenberg Librarian - Ann Dowd Reginald - Eddie Pepitone Lampert Binew - Jim Gaffigan Marla - Diane Kagan Set inside the daft world of its eccentric hero, "The Living Wake" could be termed anything from a black comedy to an absurdist/existentialist literary tale. In the end, however, pic defies all categorization, joining a small pantheon of pics including "Withnail & I" and Peter Greenaway's "Drowning byNumbers" that whistle past the graveyard with aplomb. Marking a stunning feature debut by lead actor and co-writer Mike O'Connell, pic is certain to set tongues wagging at fests and looks primed to do well in theatrical niches and tony ancillary havens.
Opening mock newsreel, titled "The Life and Times of K. Roth Binew," lets auds know they're in for something altogether different. Binew's father (Jim Gaffigan) apparently left the family when Binew was a lad. The boy was rescued from a life of sheer hell by his nanny Marla (Diane Kagan), whom he learned to love in more ways than one. Binew grows up to become a dabbler in the arts, increasingly burdened by the sense that he'll never accomplish a complete work of art, or anything else for that matter.
Newsreel brings the saga up to the present day. Binew's doctor (Sam Goldfarb) has told him he will expire of "a vague and grave disease," and Binew announces -- everything the supremely self-involved and meticulously groomed Binew says is an announcement -- that if he must leave this world, now is as good a time as any.
To this end, Binew assigns his official biographer and driver, Mills Joaquin (Jesse Eisenberg), to transport him around the forested town in his bicycle rickshaw so he can take care of all his final arrangements. The sight of Mills taking Binew to and fro in the rickshaw is a classic absurdist piece as staged by director Sol Tryon, capped by scene after scene of dialogue (written by O'Connell and regular co-writer Peter Kline) that recall Tom Stoppard in their precise, hilarious and mind-expanding use of language.
A proud alcoholic and casual swindler, Binew manages to get free booze out of his "liquorsmith" (Ben Duhl), ventures to the mortuary to demand a Viking-style burial on water, then goes to a farm to steal a goat for a picnic in honor of nanny Marla.
Binew is a man certain of his destiny as a great and elegant loser, and each step leading up to his wake seems to confirm this: His neighbor and arch-nemesis Reginald (Eddie Pepitone) sends Mills off the road by attacking him with smoke, rusty nails and ham steaks, while, in a hilarious sequence, the local librarian (Ann Dowd) firmly refuses to allow Binew to bequeath his books to the facility's collection.And, as if the special world of "The Living Wake" weren't complete enough, Binew bursts into song for a few numbers that lift O'Connell's perf into the realm of Robert Preston's in "The Music Man."While this will surely miff viewers unable to adjust their sights (or ears) to O'Connell's aggressively declarative style, others will be rewarded with one of recent cinema's most distinctive and original lead turns.
In a final test of pic's brilliance, the titular wake (which arrives just before the hour mark and lasts the better part of a half-hour) is everything and more that a K. Roth Binew send-off should be.
Playing opposite the monumental O'Connell would seem to be an impossible assignment, but Eisenberg is note-perfect as his steady servant and go-to guy. Supporting ensemble couldn't be more colorful. Pepitone, Gaffigan, Dowd, Kagan and Rebecca Comerfield (as a psychic) are among the standouts.
Low-budget pic looks fabulous, due in part to Tryon's highly crafted mise-en-scene, Scott Miller's intensely warm cinematography (lensed on well-chosen locales in woodsy southern Maine) and Michael Grasley's production design, seemingly inspired by Binew's nutty, upside-down sense of the world.
Carter Little and O'Connell's score and three blackly comic songs (one co-written with Kline) ideally cap the eccentricity.
Camera (color), Scott Miller; editor, Joe Klotz; music, Carter Little, O'Connell; production designer, Michael Grasley; set decorator, Rafaela Stacheter; costume designer, Negar Ali; sound (Dolby Digital), Anthony Viera; sound designer, John Moros; re-recording mixer, Cory Melious; line producer, Chadwick Clough; associate producers, Elizabeth Destro, Alex Orlovsky; assistant director, Christopher Joy; second unit camera, Ray Flynn; casting, Caroline Sinclair. Reviewed at CineVegas Film Festival, June 10, 2007. Running time: 91 MIN.
With: Sam Goldfarb, Ben Duhl, Matthew Cowles, Peter Paton, Stephen Brian Jones, Colombe Jacobsen-Derstine, Rebecca Comerfield, Mark Shulte, Harlan Baker, Ami Ankin.
3. The Living Wake Review on Film Threat: http://www.filmthreat.com/index.php?section=reviews&Id=10085
Entire Review Here:
K. Roth Binew (O¹Connell) is dying at the end of the day. His doctor has discovered an unnamed untreatable illness that will take the life of the eccentric Binew shortly after nightfall. Such is the plot for one of the funniest, most creative and beyond ridiculous (in a good way) films I¹ve ever seen, ³The Living Wake.² This is one of those reviews that¹s nearly impossible to write because explaining the tone and humor of the film will come nowhere close to expressing what a refreshing blast this film is, but I shall saunter forward and do my best.
Depending on the way you look at him, Binew is either an eccentric or a lunatic. He chugs scotch from the back of his three wheeled bicycle rickshaw which is driven by his best friend, biographer and ingénue Mills (Eisenberg) who is taking his mentors impending death pretty hard. Eisenberg, who is apparently incapable of being in bad movies, is a great straight-man to O¹Conell¹s over-the-top Binew but their relationship allows you to care more about the both of them. They also play hilariously off one another. Or I should say, O¹Connell plays hilariously and Eisenberg¹s character sucks it up perfectly.
I don¹t know who Mike O¹Connell is, but without any hesitation I will say he¹s a brilliant comedian. To even come up with two or three scenes featuring K. Roth Binew traveling with Mills by rickshaw would be hysterical and watchable. Yet he and writer Peter Kline have created a whole movie that really never misses a beat. I also felt director Sol Tryon gave the film a great, distinctive look. It sort of reminded me of Robert Altman¹s ³Popeye² with a hint of ³Harold and Maude² thrown in for good measure.
As Binew¹s final day unspools, he sets about doing some things he¹s always wanted to do. He attempts to make amends with a crabby neighbor and professes his undying love for his childhood nanny, now a geriatric, yet attractive woman. Throughout the day Binew hands out invites to that evenings ³living wake² and the film culminates with the big party to end all parties.
At times ³The Living Wake² felt like a live action cartoon or some kind of fairy tale from a bizarre-o world and I loved it. I can totally see how some people will not know what the hell is going on, and that¹s understandable. Binew speaks in a loud, presentational bellow and is prone to launching into song and dance. But if you allow yourself to fall into the world of ³The Living Wake,² you¹re really in for a treat. Funny, touching, insane, ridiculous and brilliant are just a few words I would use to describe ³The Living Wake.² Films like this need to be seen so seek it out, you¹ll be glad you did.
4. The Living Wake spoken of by Trevor Groth on LA TIMES blog http://vegasblog.latimes.com/
Excerpt:
Q: What are the must see films? A: Despite the huge event of the Oceans's Thirteen opening night, the heart and soul of the festival are the American independents. This year we have some that are at as high a level that you can find anywhere. One would be "The Living Wake" directed by Sol Tryon. He produced a couple films that we premiered at Sundance in January. This is his directorial debut with a film that is a departure from those two films which were urban angst driven films. "The Living Wake" is completely original and bizarre and insightful. I think it is a very special film that is destined to become a cult classic if not reaching an even more widespread audience as well.
5. The Living Wake spoken of by Trevor Groth Film Threat Clip http://www.filmthreat.com/index.php?section=features&Id=1964.
6. The Living Wake LA WEEKLY (coming soon)
Script Pimp July Newsletter 07/06/07
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SCRIPT P.I.M.P. JULY NEWSLETTER (http://www.scriptpimp.com)
Congratulations to the twenty finalists of the 2007 Script Pimp Screenwriting Competition. The winners will be announced on July 26th at the Script Pimp Awards Party in Hollywood.
Thanks again to everyone who entered. Remember, we only select finalists, we do not announce quarter or semi-finalists.
Bad Rap - Mark Grisar Birdman McGee: World's Greatest Demolition Derby Driver - Todd Shapiro Broken Hearts Revenge Club - Ian Schnee Canaries - Craig Cambria Deadbeat Boyfriends - Marc Conklin Doll - Edward Windus Fuel - James Roman Ghost Music - Knut Arne Vedaa Living In Limbo - Mike Amato Monstrous Passions - Deborah Baxtrom One Armed Bandit - Bruce Dundore Second Skin - Kim Alan Pederson Spyder - Willie Price The Banner - Tina Juarez The Best Man - Jack Davidson The California Hotel Murders - Rusty Rhodes The Great Quest - Steve Weissman The Melon Man - Mike Palmisciano The Rise of Fred Amazing - Scott Cunningham Whisper - Cory Marciel
Competition Home Page: http://www.scriptpimp.com/writing_competition/home.cfm
=============================================== (2) Script Sales Report (June 2007) =============================================== As predicted, script sales volume was at a yearly high with over 110 recorded sales. A possible writer's strike seems to be the primary cause of the buying increase. Hot genres- children's fantasy and comic books. Adaptations accounted for nearly half of all sales. Specs were robust, pitches were way down. Notable sales included a Sony remake of the Alfred Hitchcock film THE LODGER. Laurence Fishbrune will write and direct the mega-best seller THE ALCHEMIST. Brett Ratner and Brian Grazer are attached to direct and produce the Hugh Hefner bio-pic PLAYBOY. Morgan Freeman is attached to produce and star in the Nelson Mandela bio-pic THE HUMAN FACTOR. Look for another big volume in July before the industry settles down for summer vacation.
=============================================== (4) Ask the Script Pimp Expert ===============================================
Q. I've been told that no one uses 'CUT TO' or other transitions anymore (except for an occasional 'dissolve' to show time passage). If this is the case, is it common to hit 'enter' twice to keep the white on the page that is lost by not using the transition?
A. Yes, you’re absolutely correct, it’s no longer the standard to include CUT TO’s or other editing transitions in a spec. This is really a practical concern. Obviously one scene cuts to the next so these transitions just waste valuable space and clutter the page – particularly if you have a lot of short scenes in succession. It’s fine to throw in a DISSOLVE or two to create a specific effect. But it’s best not to do this.
And yes, to make the break between scenes stand out, most screenplays now leave a double – sometimes even a triple space – between the end of one scene and slug for the next. If you are using a dedicated screenwriting software program you can easily create a rule for under the elements menu for each “scene heading/slug line” that instructs the program to automatically leave a double space before the slug.
We hope this helps,
Your Script Pimp Expert
*Join our Writers Database and we'll answer your specific screenwriting questions. http://www.scriptpimp.com/writers_database/index_wdb.cfm
=============================================== (5) Script Pimp's "The Living Wake" new website for the film ===============================================
We're proud to introduce a website work in progress: www.thelivingwake.com
In case you missed it, on June 8th, Script Pimp's feature film "The Living Wake" premiered at CineVegas and was covered by Robert Koehler of Variety.
Chadwick Clough of Script Pimp served as the producer and line producer for the film.
Full article is here: http://www.variety.com/review/VE1117933902.html?categoryid=31&cs=1&query=living+wake
An Original Media presentation in association with Drops Entertainment, Script Pimp, MonAmi Prods. (International sales: Shoreline Entertainment, Los Angeles.) Produced by Ami Ankin, Chadwick Clough, Peter Kline, Mike O'Connell, Sol Tryon. Directed by Sol Tryon. Screenplay, Mike O'Connell, Peter Kine. K. Roth Binew - Mike O'Connell Mills Joaquin - Jesse Eisenberg Librarian - Ann Dowd Reginald - Eddie Pepitone Lampert Binew - Jim Gaffigan Marla - Diane Kagan Set inside the daft world of its eccentric hero, "The Living Wake" could be termed anything from a black comedy to an absurdist/existentialist literary tale. In the end, however, pic defies all categorization, joining a small pantheon of pics including "Withnail & I" and Peter Greenaway's "Drowning byNumbers" that whistle past the graveyard with aplomb. Marking a stunning feature debut by lead actor and co-writer Mike O'Connell, pic is certain to set tongues wagging at fests and looks primed to do well in theatrical niches and tony ancillary havens.
Opening mock newsreel, titled "The Life and Times of K. Roth Binew," lets auds know they're in for something altogether different. Binew's father (Jim Gaffigan) apparently left the family when Binew was a lad. The boy was rescued from a life of sheer hell by his nanny Marla (Diane Kagan), whom he learned to love in more ways than one. Binew grows up to become a dabbler in the arts, increasingly burdened by the sense that he'll never accomplish a complete work of art, or anything else for that matter.
Newsreel brings the saga up to the present day. Binew's doctor (Sam Goldfarb) has told him he will expire of "a vague and grave disease," and Binew announces -- everything the supremely self-involved and meticulously groomed Binew says is an announcement -- that if he must leave this world, now is as good a time as any.
To this end, Binew assigns his official biographer and driver, Mills Joaquin (Jesse Eisenberg), to transport him around the forested town in his bicycle rickshaw so he can take care of all his final arrangements. The sight of Mills taking Binew to and fro in the rickshaw is a classic absurdist piece as staged by director Sol Tryon, capped by scene after scene of dialogue (written by O'Connell and regular co-writer Peter Kline) that recall Tom Stoppard in their precise, hilarious and mind-expanding use of language.
A proud alcoholic and casual swindler, Binew manages to get free booze out of his "liquorsmith" (Ben Duhl), ventures to the mortuary to demand a Viking-style burial on water, then goes to a farm to steal a goat for a picnic in honor of nanny Marla.
Binew is a man certain of his destiny as a great and elegant loser, and each step leading up to his wake seems to confirm this: His neighbor and arch-nemesis Reginald (Eddie Pepitone) sends Mills off the road by attacking him with smoke, rusty nails and ham steaks, while, in a hilarious sequence, the local librarian (Ann Dowd) firmly refuses to allow Binew to bequeath his books to the facility's collection. And, as if the special world of "The Living Wake" weren't complete enough, Binew bursts into song for a few numbers that lift O'Connell's perf into the realm of Robert Preston's in "The Music Man."While this will surely miff viewers unable to adjust their sights (or ears) to O'Connell's aggressively declarative style, others will be rewarded with one of recent cinema's most distinctive and original lead turns.
In a final test of pic's brilliance, the titular wake (which arrives just before the hour mark and lasts the better part of a half-hour) is everything and more that a K. Roth Binew send-off should be.
Playing opposite the monumental O'Connell would seem to be an impossible assignment, but Eisenberg is note-perfect as his steady servant and go-to guy. Supporting ensemble couldn't be more colorful. Pepitone, Gaffigan, Dowd, Kagan and Rebecca Comerfield (as a psychic) are among the standouts.
Low-budget pic looks fabulous, due in part to Tryon's highly crafted mise-en-scene, Scott Miller's intensely warm cinematography (lensed on well-chosen locales in woodsy southern Maine) and Michael Grasley's production design, seemingly inspired by Binew's nutty, upside-down sense of the world.
Carter Little and O'Connell's score and three blackly comic songs (one co-written with Kline) ideally cap the eccentricity.
=============================================== (6) Quick summary of Script Pimp's Workshop and Database ===============================================
Writers Database Home Page: http://www.scriptpimp.com/writers_database/index_wdb.cfm
The Writers Database features the current needs and submission guidelines for over 1,000 total company listings, 300 film production companies and agencies accepting material from new screenwriters. 242 active query accounts provide writers the access to query prodcuers and agents today!
Writers Workshop Home Page: http://www.scriptpimp.com/script_coverage/index_ww2.cfm
Script P.I.M.P.'s Writers Workshop provides screenwriters with A-level development notes and consultations. A professional story analyst will write extensive notes, 3-6 pages long for $225, giving you a detailed review of the strengths and weaknesses of your screenplay. With a grade of "recommend" Script Pimp will assist you in circulating your work to agents, managers and producers at no charge.
To request more information call 310.401.1155 (10-6pm) or email: info@scriptpimp.com.
Sincerely,
Chadwick Clough Script P.I.M.P. (Pipeline Into Motion Pictures) 8033 W. Sunset Blvd. #3000, Hollywood, CA 90046 p. 310.401.1155 f. 310.564.2021 newsletter@scriptpimp.com www.scriptpimp.com
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