[MacDV] Re: Writing a script for DV

[Richard Brown]

Learning the format of feature screenwriting takes about 10 minutes. 
You need to set a total of 3 primary, and one optional tab stop. That's 
it. Which words to USE are the problem.

I have written produced screenplays way back when on Atari FirstWord, 
People write them longhand and hire typists. How you write the script 
and what program used is always irrelevant next to intent and 
determination. The day you fail is the day you give up. Passion is 
everything to the neophyte, and sometimes, it's enough.

As an independent, especially the first time filmmaker, the problem is 
in understanding the nature of film storytelling, and most importantly, 
avoiding the pitfalls of producing your "personal, important" film 
first. High art and commerce rarely mix for a first time filmmaker, 
lest that "first time" filmmaker be a product of USC, the AFI, NYU, or 
some other institution which has both instructed the craft and provided 
necessary contacts, not to mention many short films in-between.

We are in a scary new era. The tools to dazzle are all of a sudden 
available to the masses. Talent and tenacity are the variables, and 
hurdles over which only a few can soar. Knowing where the independent 
fits in this mix is critical, as indie budgets are so microscopic. The 
independent must be the filmmaker and the marketer - delivering the 
same sort of things a major does to the standardized methods of 
distribution. You must dot the "i's" and cross the "t's" on every 
detail or your film may languish unwatched, as many, many do...

Richard Brown
been there, done that
...hoping to help pave the road...