I plan on posting an “open forum” thread like this on a regular basis to allow people to raise topics and ask questions about screenwriting, writing, the screenwriter’s life, etc. I’ll either follow up with a response in the comment thread or, if the subject warrants, put together a separate post. So have at it!
Okay, what I have is actually a question: how does one balance character and plot in a plot-driven script? I always seem to get the same note on my action scripts: needs more character. The problem with my exposition is that it always sounds like exposition. I like to have my characters reveal themselves by their actions and by what they say and do not say. Is there a way to flesh out my characters without sacrificing the pace of the story, especially a high octane story?
Justwrite7, you ask a probing question that would on the face of it seem to come down to some sort of math formula: X amount of ‘character’ is not enough, Y amount of ‘character’ is too much, Z amount of ‘character’ is just enough. But in the end, I think a writer can avoid that formulaic of an approach.
Over the next few days, I’ll take up your question with a post or two (or more), depending upon where my response travels. So check back by Wednesday — should have something up for you then.
Okay, I have an actual question as well. I’ve just been asked to do an option on a short that is part of a series of shorts I wrote some years back. I checked out the guy on IMdbpro and he’s a real person, but has worked mainly as a locations scout and production assitant. That doesn’t mean he’s not capable of putting together a film. Heck, if I’m capable of writing no telling what anyone else can accomplish. He wants the short for a television series in the Twilight Zone vein and is offering $1.00 for two years and $1,000 to buy full rights if it gets made. Right now it’s sitting in my computer gathering subatomic particles. What are some of the pitfalls and can I ask that these guys be more creative than $1.00 and $1,000.00, or is that pushing my luck.
Marc Calderwood
PS – hope to get back into one of your classes later this year.
Welcome, Marc, and congrats on the interest in this possible short film. The question of options is something worthy of a separate post. I’ll get something up about it tomorrow.