Over the weekend, someone posted a thread voicing their frustrations about trying to be a screenwriter. This person received an abundance of good advice from other S32 forum folks. I myself even rendered an opinion on the subject. But it got me to thinking… why am I a screenwriter? During the month of August, I’ve had several script read requests; some for recent work and some for my older scripts. Consequently, I’ve spent a lot of time revisiting my scripts; and in most cases, adding a fair amount of direction. The take away is that I’m a much different writer than I was even a year ago. In any case, this is why I’m a screenwriter because: 1. To me, I’ve realized my scripts are like children to me. They are living, evolving things. I can make their lives better or worse; but as long as I’m alive, they’re alive too. And, if any of them are made into films, they’ll live on after me. 2. After writing my first script, I’ve since written 26 more. 3. I go through phases where I’m not productive, yet I continue to create and learn new things. 4. In spite of rejections and failures, I continue to write, whether I’m plodding along or flying at the speed of light. 5. I’m a screenwriter because I say that I am; and have created the perception that I am with other creatives and film industry people. 6. Other screenwriters often reach out to me for help; and in turn help me. 7. I have the guts to march to my own creative tune. 8. I believe in myself and continue to ignore the negative the energy from those that don’t believe in me. 9. I’ve been able to convince producers, directors and literary agents to pitch my work to others. 10. I take rejections with a grain of salt. 11. I take successes with a grain of salt; albeit a happier one. 12. I’m never complacent about pushing the boundaries of what I’m doing. 13. I have a burning desire to tell stories; and believe there is an endless pool of stories to be told. 14. I believe getting a big budget film made is akin to being a salmon swimming upstream… at Niagara Falls. Yet I continue to try. 15. I’m a screenwriter because I’m obsessed with it. Why are you a screenwriter?
Screenwriting : Why are you a screenwriter? by Phillip E. Hardy, "The Pro From Dover"
Other topics in Screenwriting:
Check out Trending Discussions
Register / Log In
3 people like this
2 people like this
Stephen: You are good at it. I'm looking forward to reading the new work.
Thanks, Brother! I come to you for guidance because you're greater than I am. How else can one improve without (making) someone their mentor?!
1 person likes this
Stephen: You are most welcome.
2 people like this
Good questions and observations Phillip. Totally agree and can relate to all of it. I think screenwriting has become my favorite form of expression because I love the process, I love dialogue (I am a terrible eavesdropper IRL, always listening!) and I love to "see" a story play out. Movies and books were my greatest escape from a turbulent childhood. They were my protection, my security, my go-to way of dealing with things. They remain so today and I love the thought that maybe someday I could make a movie that would provide that security and escape to someone else.
Jody: Wow! So beautifully articulated! "I love the thought that maybe someday I could make a movie that would provide that security and escape to someone else." Man, that is the gospel truth. This is a statement from someone who cares more about creating art than making money. And if you do make money, what a delicious icing on the cake.
Aw Phillip you are way too kind! :-)
1 person likes this
Phillip - I would tell you, but then you'd base a script on my life story; change it around enough to avoid legal tangles; make lots of money off of it; and continue funding your Slave Writers Camp there in Austin, you Texas hustler you. Harumph!
1 person likes this
This is awesome, Phillip! Thanks for writing this. Definitely gave me some extra motivation to write tonight!
Sounds Good , I like reading your post both on this site and your new site , for script coverage , I find them great and encouraging , They keep me going despite small walls . Lots of respect .
Bill C: I don't need factual information. I'm writing the unauthorized Costantini biopic. Sadie: that's very cool! Ronald: Thanks for the kind words.
1 person likes this
Phillip - just make sure you cast me right. I'm like a cross between Viggo Mortensen, Ryan Gosling, and Zeus. And what's up with women and Viggo Mortensen? My girlfriend always tells me "you remind me soooo much of Viggo Mortensen...I love you soooo much." I reply back "I love you too, honey....now can I take off the Viggo Mortensen face mask? It's really starting to itch." Oh!
Bill C: I used to get you look like Charlie Sheen. Now I'm hearing Martin Sheen.
Because it makes getting drunk at 8 in the morning acceptable. That's why I'm a screenwriter.
@Erik oh yeah, I forgot about the drinking. Lots of drinking. Lol
Total creative freedom.
To become the New God.