Screenwriting

Once more into the breach my good friends! My month long vacation is over now that we've rung in 2026...and I'm off and running with my 8th Full length Feature Script...This time we delve into Sci-Fi Horror, deep within the vast darkness of space itself, wish me luck! -JAC

First, happy new year to everyone - may all my fellow scribes, producers, directors and creative colleagues have a year filled with good health, much joy and great success.

Now to the issue - I've completed two of the first six episodes for my sci fi anthology. I just can't think of a title for it. Here's a logline for the series: “Across worlds and timelines, strangers encounter phenomena that expose the hidden architecture of existence—and force them to choose who they become when the universe pays attention.”

In August I posted that an Australian production company asked for more details after I tried to sell my script to them. They are back, asking for still more details.

Those of you who like myself want to sell by sending a query letter, I hope you understand that you will have to answer similar questions.

The production company want me to improve upon my logline and synopsis.

Old logline :

A female CIA operative with a doppelganger in another galaxy tries to flee there because of her abusive boss, but finds a way to confront him and can stay.

Their comments :

"A good Logline *sells the reader on your project and gives the reader a quick overview of the *Who, *What, and *Where of the story.

Aim to capture the attention and interest of the reader in 2-3 sentences.

We recommend that you to elaborate on the exact location that you’re referring to in the logline (“flee there”)."

So feel free to improve upon my suggestion to a new logline :

"Due to her abusive boss, a female CIA special agent tries to flee to a planet where she has a doppelganger. But the boss is a liar, so she realizes that she can't leave our planet. Instead she must find the strength to confront her boss."

And then the synopsis. Old synopsis :

Pauline, a CIA operative, is haunted by the loss of her baby and manipulated by her uncle and boss, Gunpowder, who demands she assassinate a powerful figure to prove her loyalty. Reluctant to comply, Pauline's grief leaves her feeling indifferent about her own well-being.

Pauline becomes an unwitting witness when scientist Albert accidentally teleports his financier Marlene to the Andromeda Galaxy. Marlene returns after encountering her doppelganger. Bertha, a professor and part-time CIA spy, seeks the teleportation device to exact revenge on Albert, who accuses her of cheating. To appease her boss, Pauline assists Bertha.

Pauline learns that in the Andromeda Galaxy, her alternate self was imprisoned for murder. Trapped by Gunpowder’s lies and emotional abuse, Pauline, desperate to avoid the kill order, teams up with Bertha. They try to coerce Albert and Marlene to help them flee to the Andromeda Galaxy, only to find Marlene prepared to fight back. In the aftermath Pauline finds the strength to confront and expose Gunpowder. With the fall of Gunpowder and Bertha, Pauline begins to heal from the loss of her baby.

Their comments :

"

Your synopsis should set up the *Who, *What, *Where, and *How, touching on every beat of the story (without necessarily giving everything away).

Think of the *Synopsis as an extended version of the *Logline.

Your synopsis is informative, but could require more explanation on how the occurrences coincide.

Expand upon the characters of the story. All stories are about people, and we therefore need to know *WHO this story is about.

How do the characters that you mentioned impact the narrative? What are their roles?

What is Pauline’s motive for fleeing to the Andromeda Galaxy?

"

And here is my suggestion for a new synopsis, which you should feel free to improve upon

"

The story illustrates that we have relations both with those we meet and those we can't meet.

Our main character Pauline, a CIA operative, is haunted by the loss of her baby and manipulated by her uncle and boss, Gunpowder. He demands her to assassinate a powerful figure to prove her loyalty. Reluctant to comply, Pauline's grief leaves her feeling indifferent about her own well-being.

Pauline becomes an unwitting witness when scientist Albert feeds a mathematical formula into a scientific instrument, which accidentally teleports his financier Marlene to the Andromeda Galaxy. Marlene returns after encountering her doppelganger. Bertha, a professor and part-time CIA spy, seeks the scientific instrument to exact revenge on Albert, who accuses her of cheating. To appease her boss, Pauline assists Bertha.

Gunpowder fools Pauline to believe that her dead baby has a doppelganger at an orphanage in the Andromeda Galaxy. While Bertha falls in love with a man in the Andromeda Galaxy, by using Albert's scientific instrument. Trapped by Gunpowder’s lies and emotional abuse, Pauline, desperate to avoid the kill order, teams up with Bertha. They try to coerce Albert and Marlene to teleport them to the Andromeda Galaxy, only to find Marlene prepared to fight back. In the aftermath Pauline finds the strength to confront and expose Gunpowder. With the fall of Gunpowder and Bertha, Pauline shows that she can heal from the loss of her baby.

"

Here's some of the things I did this year:

– Three drafts of my feature script Vampire-Proof

– Rewrote my feature script Kill the Monster

– Ghostwriting jobs

– Pitch deck jobs

– Wrote short scripts

– Made pitch material

One thing I was reminded of this year is sometimes a project needs more work, so don't beat yourself up if your project is taking longer than expected.

One thing I want to do more of in 2026 is read spec scripts and give feedback on them.

What's one victory you had or something you learned/were reminded of this year? Or something you want to do more of next year.

Heading into 2026, I spend a lot of time talking about opportunities, executives, and industry strategy. But as 2025 comes to a close, I want to talk about something more important: you. This community is special. Not because of the partnerships we've built or the executives we've brought in, but because of the writers who show up every day with courage, resilience, and genuine support for each other.

This year, you:

Celebrated each other's wins (85+ members landing representation, options, assignments, and deals)

Showed up for each other in the lounges when someone needed advice, encouragement, or just someone who understood

Turned connections into collaborations, mentorships, and real friendships

Proved that writing doesn't have to be lonely when you have a community like this

The 4 success stories we've had in the last 8 weeks alone? Those writers didn't just submit to an OWA and get lucky. They showed up in the lounges. They participated in Q&As. They built relationships. They were part of this community before they got their breakthrough.

That's what makes the Writers' Room work.

It's not just access to executives (though we've brought you incredible ones from Amazon, Netflix, CAA, HBO, and more). It's not just the partnerships (DramaBox, Color Farm Media, Mammoth, Zero Gravity). It's not just the opportunities.

It's the fact that you're not doing this alone.

As we head into 2026, I want to challenge you to go even deeper into this community. Show up more. Support each other more. Ask for help when you need it. Offer help when you can. Build the relationships that turn into careers.

What are you most grateful for from this community in 2025?

What do you want to contribute in 2026?

Let's keep lifting each other up.

Screenwriters: If studios and budgets didn't place restrictions on you, what would you write more of? What things do you want to include in your scripts that you normally pause and think "naw, they will never accept that". ?

My biggest breakthrough of 2025 was to have my screenplay play "The Road to Hope ' approved by the Bob and Delores Hope Foundation, with rights to use Bob's name and likeness in the film we are now packaging for production. This is the first film approved by the family and tells a unique true story that took place in August of 1944 in Australia with Bob's USO troupe making an emergency landing in a small coastal town. I am looking forward to 2026 and getting this to the screen. Happy New Year, everyone.

Here is my first go at doing a movie script format.

Ch6 Page 3

EXT, Castle Courtyard, Day.

Wide Shot

Garna sets down the massive tree at the bottom of the castle steps, dust billowing as it lands with a heavy thud. The floating castle looms above, its black stone spires twisting unnaturally, anchored to the mountain by enormous chains of iron and glowing runes. The drawbridge rolls back into place, sealing them inside the floating fortress. Garna stretches his shoulders, letting out a satisfied sigh. The tailor cautiously steps out from the branches, straightening his tunic as he gets his first clear look at the castle.

Medium Shot

EliDoras stands atop the castle steps, a commanding presence draped in flowing robes of dark emerald and gold trim. His piercing golden eyes survey the tailor with mild curiosity, though his lips are curled in a knowing smirk. Garna bows his head slightly, giving EliDoras a booming greeting. EliDoras chuckles, eyeing Garerit with interest.

Garna (Grinning, Respectful): "Ah, Lord EliDoras! I bring an unexpected guest. A man of wit and talent, or so he claims!”(FIX?)

Close-Up shot

Garerit, ever the keen observer, notices strange figures lingering nearby—a hawk perched unnaturally still, a sleek black fox with unsettlingly human eyes, a massive stag that watches him with eerie intelligence. Their expressions are not that of beasts, but of people trapped in bodies not their own. Garerit's brow furrows, sensing something unnatural.

Wide shot

EliDoras gestures lazily toward the creatures, a glint of amusement in his eyes. He descends the steps slowly, his robe barely touching the ground. The fox takes a hesitant step forward, ears flicking as if trying to signal something to Garerit. Garerit's expression darkens, realizing the gravity of the situation.

EliDoras (Smooth, Almost Amused): "Curious, aren't they? Not quite men, not quite beasts.”

EliDoras (Casually, with False Warmth): "Guests who no longer have the option to leave, you see. It is quite difficult to escape when you lack the hands to climb or the voice to call for help.”

Ch6 Page 4

EXT, Castle Courtyard, Day.

Medium Shot

EliDoras strokes his chin thoughtfully as Garna recounts Garerit's feats, mentioning the tailor's legendary claim: "Seven at One Blow.”

EliDoras (Mocking Curiosity):

"A tailor, you say? And yet, you bested my giant and outwitted men? Strange talents for one who mends hems and stitches fabric."Garerit remains silent but straightens his posture, keeping his expression unreadable.

Close-Up shot

EliDoras smirks, his golden eyes gleaming with mischief. He flicks his wrist, and suddenly, his emerald robes billow unnaturally, revealing several torn and tattered sections. In the background, a black-furred dog whimpers as if remembering its past as a human.

EliDoras (Casual, Yet Dangerous): "Then let us see if a tailor can still serve his true purpose.”

EliDoras (Coldly): "Mend my robes before the moon reaches its peak. If you fail... you'll find yourself barking at the gates come morning.”

Medium Shot

Garerit bows slightly, suppressing any sign of fear. He pulls a small sewing kit from his belt pouch, tools of his trade, sharp and ready.

Garerit (Calm, Smirking): "A simple task. I'll make you look like royalty before the night is done.”

Montage Sequence

shot 4A - Close-Up of Hands

Garerit works with expert precision, threading a golden needle through the torn fabric, his hands moving swiftly.

shot 4B - Magic Threads Glow

Using a clever trick, Garerit weaves a hidden pattern into the seams, making the robes stronger and more vibrant than before.

shot 4C - Adding Secret Enhancements

He reinforces the fabric with a few carefully stitched runes, unknown to EliDoras.

Wide Shot

EliDoras inspects the newly mended robes, running his fingers over the flawless embroidery. Garna chuckles in the background, clearly entertained. Garerit, ever the performer, gives a slight bow.

EliDoras (Genuinely Impressed, Though Trying to Hide It): "You have nimble hands, little tailor. I expected you to fumble... but you've exceeded my expectations.”

Here is my first go at doing a movie script format.

Chapter 6 Page 1

The Castle in the Sky

(Scene 1 - Wide shot EXT)

A wide, panoramic shot shows Garna, the giant, walking along a massive stone path leading toward the enchanted castle in the sky. The sky is tinged with deep blues and purples, giving the setting an otherworldly, dreamlike quality. The castle is still in the distance, towering over the landscape like a forgotten relic of ancient power. Garerit, hidden within the tree's branches, peers out carefully, his expression a mix of curiosity and apprehension. The tree sways slightly with Garna's movements, but the tailor holds on tight, making sure he isn't spotted.

As the castle loomed ahead, the tailor saw the world of giants stretch before him- massive, ancient, and perilous.

(Scene 2 - Wide shot EXT)

A glimpse into the inside of the enchanted castle's land reveals towering, massive stone structures that seem barely suitable for anyone smaller than a giant. Inside the gates, giants patrol the area—some standing guard, others relaxing near enormous stone tables, feasting and sharpening weapons. Their booming voices rise in laughter and conversation, giving the castle an alive yet threatening atmosphere. Several giants are loudly conversing as they guard and oversee their captives. The castle's magical aura intensifies here, and the stark contrast between the giants' immense size and the small figure of the tailor underscores the monumental challenge Garerit faces.

Within the castle, giants roam freely, their presence an ever-looming threat to those trapped here. Some are more dangerous than others.

(Scene 3 - Medium shot EXT)

The giants are scattered along the path, some sitting on large stone ledges, while others sharpen their weapons or haul massive supplies toward the castle. Their voices boom like rolling thunder, and their presence makes the tailor more cautious.

Garna - "Ah-ha! Borik! Still eating more than you fight, I see! Hah!"

Borik - "And you, Garna, still carrying twigs instead of real weight!"

(Scene 4 - Medium shot EXT)

A medium panel shows Garerit peeking from behind a tree branch, trying to stay unnoticed as the giants go about their business. His expression is focused, and there's a determined look in his eyes. The giants are mostly unaware of his presence, busy with their affairs. The tailor's observation of these giants introduces the danger they represent, but also hints at the potential strategy Garerit may employ to outwit them.

Garerit - Thought VO "More giants... I must avoid getting caught. Time to use my wits."

(Scene 5 - Close-Up shot EXT)

A close-up shot of Garerit shows him watching through the branches, his face partially hidden by pine needles. His eyes dart between the giants, trying to remain unseen. His grip tightens on the tree, and a single bead of sweat forms on his forehead as he realizes just how many giants are here.

Garerit - Thought VO "There are too many of them... I can't let them find me."

(Scene 6 - Wide shot EXT)

As Garna moves, the castle in the sky comes fully into view as it breaks through the clouds. The structure is colossal, with spiraling towers, ornate bridges of shimmering stone, and glowing runes carved into its walls. A mysterious blue-green light pulses from its windows, and spectral chains drape across sections of the castle, hinting at ancient magic and imprisoned souls. The clouds swirl around its base, adding to its eerie majesty. Garerit's eyes widen in awe and trepidation as he sees it up close for the first time. He grips the tree bark tighter, feeling the weight of his situation.

The enchanted castle stood before him, an eerie fortress of power and mystery. Whatever lay inside, it was not meant for the likes of men.

Ch6 Pg 2

(Scene 1 - Wide Shot EXT)

The castle doors loom before them, massive and adorned with arcane symbols. The air is thick with magic, swirling with glowing embers that drift like fireflies. Standing on the front steps is EliDoras, a tall, regal figure in flowing dark robes, his long silver hair cascading past his shoulders. His eyes glow unnaturally, and he holds a gilded staff, crackling with latent magic. Several other creatures, a fox with human-like eyes, a haggard old cow, and a massive hound with strange intelligence-stand nearby, watching. The fox, cow, and dog stand together, their features now more refined and humanoid. Their faces retain their animal characteristics, muzzles, ears, and fur-but their bodies are structured like those of humans, with proper limbs, posture, and clothing fitting their roles in the castle. The Fox: A slender figure with keen, intelligent eyes, dressed in a fine tunic and cloak, giving the impression of a cunning court official or a scholar. The Cow: A broad-shouldered individual with strong arms, wearing a simple yet practical outfit suited for physical labor, resembling a farmer or stable master. The Dog: Standing with a firm yet attentive posture, clad in a guard's uniform, exuding loyalty and duty, as if once a knight or castle guard before the curse.

(Scene 2 - Medium Shot EXT)

EliDoras smirks, looking down at Garerit, clearly amused by the tailor's small stature compared to Garna. Garna laughs heartily, unaware of the tension.

EliDoras (Cold and Calculating): "A tailor? In my domain? You must be more than you seem... or exceptionally foolish."

Garerit (Keeping His Cool, Responds Wryly): "They say the best tailors weave more than thread, my lord."

(Scene 3 - Close-Up EXT)

The fox, cow, and hound exchange glances, their eyes filled with silent desperation. Garerit notices their strange behavior, sensing something is wrong.

(Scene 4 - Medium Shot EXT)

EliDoras gestures toward the animals, a smirk playing on his lips. Garerit's expression hardens, gripping the strap of his satchel tightly. The fox takes a hesitant step forward, as if pleading.

EliDoras (Casual, Almost Bored): "They were once men and women, like yourself. A simple precaution. If my guests cannot run, they cannot leave."