Learn from other people’s mistakes

When the Australian Writers Guild NSW organised a night with prominent script editors, one of the questions to the panel was about the most common mistakes. From the answers I have compiled the list below, together with ten common problems from my own experience. These are not just issues with scripts of my clients, but … Read more

New Screenwriters

Most government film agencies have funds to spend on promising new screenwriters. Often the requirements are less stringent in terms of the formal perfection of the works; the attention goes to the writer’s voice, the type of material and the mastery of a visual language. Still you will need to get through the hurdle of … Read more

Plot Point: Introduction

The essence of ‘plot point’ is the essence of drama, yet I find it hard to define. There will always be unresolved elements in its definition, much in the same way the responses to a kid’s unrelenting questions ultimately lead to the question about the Meaning of Life. Inside the Plot Point lies the Meaning … Read more

Mid-Point: One Flew over the Cuckoo’s Nest

The two-disk release of ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO’s nest features a great commentary by director Milos Forman and producers Michael Douglas and Saul Zaentz. Forman is known for his ability to bring out phenomenal performances. In his trademark Czech accent he expands on his process, from selecting the cast to cutting their dialogue. Zaentz … Read more

POV as Controller of Tone

A toddler looks at a man pulling funny faces, moving his limbs in crazy spasms. He falls on the ground, he hits his head. The toddler jumps with excitement. A female bystander watches the scene, her face contorted, fighting back tears. The introduction of the woman suddenly gives us a reliable POV. Although we still … Read more