Screenwriting : November Write Club: Let's do this! by Beth Fox Heisinger

November Write Club: Let's do this!

I've decided to use the month of November as a personal deadline to finish a first draft of a spec screenplay within 30 days -- to jump start a script I've been outlining. I'm hoping there are others that wish to join me in using the 30 days of November as a personal deadline for whatever project you're working on -- be it a first draft, a rewrite, a TV pilot, a feature, a short, whatever. Something you may need a little motivation to help you get it done. Of course, this is on your terms and the point is to cheer each other on and offer support. Any takers? Tips? Thoughts?

Debbie Croysdale

Great idea, I've occasionally had this kind of help before while networking here, but not a designated group "Countdown" for a specific project. This sounds interesting, sometimes another persons point of view and enthusiasm, can re ignite the spark needed for ones own work. A November Bonding of people sharing deadlines, sounds a fun exercise. It could be a thread where people take part at least once a week (say Sunday,) to gather and re-boot, fresh for the new week ahead. Of course that's just the minimum input, people could re group, on an as and when needed basis.

Erica Benedikty

I'm in, I was gonna re write but I have another idea that just popped into my head the other day and I can't get it out of there. I need to stew on in a bit more before committing to it but I might just try writing it.

Beth Fox Heisinger

Hey Debbie! That sounds great! I was thinking something along those lines too; checking in, offering encouragement. :) All right, Erica! Do whatever works best for you! :) This will be a challenge for me. I have a crazy schedule. I juggle a lot -- like most people. My goal is to have a solid enough first draft by the end of November, so I can roll up my sleeves and begin the real hard work -- rewriting. :)

Kristopher Rickards

I did a similar thing Aug - Sept 2014. It gives such a great sense of accomplishment and boost in confidence. I gave myself 6 weeks to finish a first draft and succeeded with a couple days to spare. The piece was then given to my two closest readers to revise and advise and left for 2 weeks. Over the space of 2 months, the script was ready for rewrite / editing.On Sept 23rd, this year, the final draft was submitted to its first competition. I might give this a shot, too.

Elaine Haygood

I DO have a screenplay that needs finishing-Are you suggesting we give each other updates on the work/discuss our particular challenges and offer encouragement to those who may need it?

Debbie Croysdale

Hi all, looks like there's six in already, I can feel the positive vibe, and we have six more days to go before starting our projects. Group bonding is a great idea on several accounts, inspirational backup, shared angst if things go stale, adding fresh eyes and strategies. Also if others are expecting an input from me, I feel less drawn in by outside influences. Eg. A friend saying "come on out" and then spending time idling in a club/bar/restaurant, or seeing something good on TV and deciding to pop in a ready meal, and the cosy feel prevents return to the computer. November is "Project Go Go."

John Michael German

Dear Beth Fox Heisinger: These types of posts are very beneficial as it brings a sense of camaraderie amongst people who may have never connected before. To inspire, and to motivate to bring out their inner desire to write to their fullest. I also will be doing a 30 day challenge to write a whole new script off an idea I have as well as finish some other scripts that I have taken a break from. Keep up the posts that bring people together for the sole purpose of helping one another - without any gain other then the ability to help. Sincerely, John German

Michael J Smyth

Hi Beth, thanks, maybe this will help me stop procrastinating. I've been talking about writing a short film script for an idea I've had for a few months. Its something I've wanted to do to get myself some more screen time at the 'lead'. End of November is a great deadline. Maybe I'll use this to get my butt into gear and get that showreel finished :)

Evelien And Dorien Twins

Hi Beth, you may or may not know this from a... a previous post - but consider us in :)

Beth Fox Heisinger

Great, Kristopher! It's encouraging to hear you've had previous success with a personal deadline. Let's do this!

Beth Fox Heisinger

Elaine, Andrew, John, Michael: It's wonderful to have you join in! :) Yes, that's exactly what I was thinking. Perhaps we check in every few days or once a week for "progress reports." If anyone gets stuck or needs some positive reinforcement we can be there for each other. :)

Beth Fox Heisinger

Debbie: Well said! :) Yes, this week I'm prepping by finishing up an outline for a thriller. It'll be a little rough, not too detailed, but should be enough to launch a first draft. What do you have lined up for November?

Evelien And Dorien Twins

We've just drafted the first synopsis for a comedy feature we're hoping to start & finish within the following month (first draft, that is). Came up with the idea on Saturday and it's been making us smile ever since, so we'll do our best!

Beth Fox Heisinger

Twins! Yes, of course! I was going to send you a message. ;) I went with "30 Days of Write," borrowing a bit from one of my favorite vampire films, "30 Days of Night." I absolutely love Halloween. It seemed appropriate, especially as we begin our projects the day after. ;)

Evelien And Dorien Twins

Excellent!

Beth Fox Heisinger

A comedy feature sounds great, Twins. :)

Debbie Croysdale

Hi @beth I've a short film script to final draft. (One of six micros in different genres) I've been putting it off because its the least of my favourites, I don't find it hard to write, but it's the hardest into getting into the heads of the characters. It's a Rom Com and needs a light hearted look on life, as seen through the characters perspective. I found my others easier to write in solitude, deep dark and dangerous Horror, Noir, (two of each,) and one pulp. I will look forward to the outside help with the Rom Com. Equally I look forward to helping others along their way.

Beth Fox Heisinger

Debbie: Your project sounds interesting. So, it's a set of six short films? I have not ventured into RomCom territory myself. I'm much more comfortable in drama and thriller. However, I'm happy to help where I can.

Elaine Haygood

Hi, Debbie. I commend you: Rom Coms from a writer's standpoint are deceptively simple-Emphasis on DECEPTIVELY. The basic formula would leave people thinking that anyone can do Rom Com: Person meets Person, Person loses Person. Person wins other Person back-WRONG! As you probably already know, Rom Coms work best when they have depth and texture and the unexpected-think, My Best Friend's Wedding: Julia Roberts DOESN'T get the guy, but she DOES gain greater insight into herself and the hope of something better in the future. I would say, start with your characters: and, what's the backdrop? the reason I say this is because I think films that rely on GREAT backdrop (Moonlight, comes most immediately to mind) are the ones I go back to over and over again as I find myself as much in love with the setting of the piece as I do the characters-sometimes even more. Oh well, that's my 2 cents for the moment-Hope this helped. As for myself, I've got a scrip that's a combination of Scifi and Horror as I revisit themes brought about by the first of The Howling series-I've got about 55% of the script done and will then be working on the graphic novel.

Tao R.M.

Good luck. You can do it. Everyday when you get up in the morning, just get into your writing. The shortest time it took me to finish a feature script is a month and a half. That's approximately 45 days excluding planning. I tried for a month, but couldn't do it. That doesn't you can't do it.

Shari D. Frost

I'm in! It will be fun to know you're all out there too. Looking forward to hearing how it all goes for everyone.

Edmund L. Driver

That is an awesome challenge. I will be rewriting my a script I wrote years ago to enter an upcoming writing contest.

Richard "RB" Botto

Absolutely love this, Beth! Awesome initiative!

Beth Fox Heisinger

Thanks for the encouragement, great tip and support, Tao. Much appreciated!

Beth Fox Heisinger

Shari and Edmund: Great to have you! What writing project will you be working on in November, Shari? Edmund, you mentioned a rewrite... What genre?

Brian Walsh

I'm in. I just started the actual writing of a first draft so I'll steal the last few days of October and try to finish before I go on vacay on the 26th of Nov. Great incentive not to be the one who doesn't get it done. :)

Beth Fox Heisinger

Thanks, RB!

Beth Fox Heisinger

Brian, wonderful to have you join in. What's your project, a feature? If so, what genre?

Evelien And Dorien Twins

Beth, we’d like to ask you if you’d like to be our beta reader at the end of the month?

Evelien And Dorien Twins

really liking/appreciating the positive vibes this thread is producing!

Beth Fox Heisinger

Twins: Sure, I'd love to. ;)

Richard "RB" Botto

Beth leaves positive vibes in her wake!

Shari D. Frost

actually, Beth, I'm torn between 2 -- I'll probably go with a dramedy idea I've been kicking around (my fave genre) but I also have a low budget sci fi idea that keeps saying "write me!"

Marli J Monroe

Hi Beth! 30 Days of Write is a wonderful idea and a great exercise. I hope you do this again...soon!

Kristopher Rickards

Alright, after 24 hours consideration, I'm in. I cannot start the writing process until Tuesday 3rd, but I can certainly get some researching done and ideas forming - I can see the opening in my third eye already. I'm going to start a project called THE WEEKEND. Ten recruits undertake vigorous testing of their skills and morals as part of MI5 recruitment process.

Evelien And Dorien Twins

Shari - we generally have difficulties making anything sci-fi we write "low budget" so we applaud your ability to do that! Kristopher - you could always "steal" the last few days of October to make up for the 3 days you'll be missing in November, if you have time and/or so choose to do! The Weekend sounds like a fun project. Is it reminiscent to "Quantico" (the new series)? Sounds like it could be a sort of premise to that!

Michael J Smyth

see what you started Beth, just by a few simple words. :)

Kristopher Rickards

Eveliendorien Twins. I hadn't heard of Quantico until this very moment. I was torn between doing a contemporary piece or setting in 1979. I guess now that it'll be historical so that it is different.

Beth Fox Heisinger

Fiona! Yes! Great to have you! We'll certainly need your "can do" attitude as I see your personal motto is: Finish it! :) ...Hmm, I like your plan to complete a detailed outline in 4 weeks. My outline for my thriller is rough, although I'm prepping it now for this 30 day exercise. But, I may have to rethink this. What I tend to do is work on both, a detailed outline and the first draft, at the same time. I'll have an outline with a clear plan but then fine-tune it as I go. I like to keep things somewhat organic so I'm open to discovery. I also tend to edit myself immediately, which has its benefits but also slows me down and can get in the way of creative flow. I'm hoping to alter my approach slightly and see how that affects my results. :)

Monique McGee

I'm in! This sounds like a lot of fun. I'm already working on an outline so I will be ready to roll on Nov 1!

Stephen Barber

Beth, I'm engaged in this "push" to write too. At first, I thought I had too many options to screen through when I initially read the article four days ago and I didn't think it would benefit my schedule to put (another) deadline down, and torture my head 30 days later from a self-inflicted wound. But, like almost everything in my life that I decide to (get out of my own way) I was given the answer through LOUD MUSIC in my car... I'll be writing a pilot starting on Sunday, and with yet another self-inflicted wound I'm opening, I can assure you that if at the very least, if nothing else comes to fruition, at least I'll have another tangible manifestation of my thoughts’ and my creativity that I can share and continue to sculpt.

Michael J Smyth

Kristopher, never heard of it either but just looked and we're getting it in the UK in the new year. Looks good.

Debbie Croysdale

Hi @Elaine Thanks for your input and feedback about Rom Coms, (RCs not my usual cup of tea). My settings include the backdrop of The River Slaney, Ireland, and River Thames, London. I'm doing two versions of this script, (Ireland/UK) so when pitching the finished micro film, there are two choices to possibly turn into a feature. Your Graphic Novel sounds interesting, I hope you keep us updated. @Beth Yep, six shorts in all, mainly horror/pulp, in the gritty terrain of Andalucia and an old Manor House, Scandinavia. I call them my DDD catalogue, Dark, Deep, Dangerous, but the Rom Com is a Wild Card to me. It's great you have started this "Get it Done November" club, bringing new vibes to previously shelved or neglected projects, as a new team working together. @ALL SUNDAY IS KICKSTART DAY!

Beth Fox Heisinger

Stephen, great to have you! So, what was the kick-ass song that got you fired up to join us this November?

Beth Fox Heisinger

"Get-it-Done November Club." I like that, Debbie. I may have to borrow it. :) We could post motivational quotes throughout November. ...Okay, people, KICK-START DAY soon approaches! Let's do this!

Stephen Barber

@ Beth... It was "Nine Inch Nails" - "Right Where It Belongs." *If it's been a while, or (Never) I strongly advise any creator to turn that on and UP!

Shari D. Frost

E. Twins - lol! I came to screenwriting through playwriting, so I don't think I know how to write anything expensive :oP

Evelien And Dorien Twins

Haha, we've written a low-budget play ourselves, SO DIFFICULT!

Jorge J Prieto

BETH, hadn't planned on starting a new project after finishing my very first Crime /Drama, which drained me. But, everyone's excitement and the fact that it's you, whom has been so kind with me in the past, I'm IN. My Drama The Secret Dancer, I will start in November. I will start my preliminary tonight. i.e. characters names, it's set in the '80s , so I need to get the films, songs...ect.that were all a part of the year my characters are living in. The same as RB, I always know my first scene and my ending. What happens in between, I leave up to my characters. Will keep u ALL posted. Good luck to everyone above and below this post, my fellow writers. Stage 32 is the only website where great things are happening every day. Let's go Mets! My neighborhood team. Team Beth, let's go as well!

Anthony Cawood

I'm in Beth, a have a limited location thriller that has come together, more or less, good to have a deadline and a group of like minded souls to encourage each other.

Beth Fox Heisinger

All right, all right, all right! Jorge and Anthony! Wonderful to have you join us! I look forward to your updates about your progress. :) ...Team Beth, I like it!

Jorge J Prieto

BETH, you are a true leader, girlfriend. Reminder, in less than an hour, 4pm pst. 7p EST. Free Webinar with JOEY.

Shari D. Frost

Yeah, Jorge, let's go Mets!! (and The Secret Dancer sounds intriguing...)

Evelien And Dorien Twins

It's easier than it looks :D

Richard "RB" Botto

I see that Mets comment, Shari! Let's go!!!

Jorge J Prieto

Thanks, Shari, just read your comment. Was on with JOEY. Great Webinar by the way. Yeah, it's about dancers (not conventional types) and they are male) it's early '80s. I can't say anymore or I miss the game which I DVR and I now need to rewind. Cheers!!!

Jorge J Prieto

Just read your post, Shari. Was on with JOEY and great guests on year end webinar. Yeah, The Secret Dancer is about a dancer ( not the conventional type) male dancer by the way and it's early 80's NYC. Can't say no more or I'll miss the game, which I DVR and now need to quickly rewind with my eyes closed. Cheers, girlfriend. Lets make this group, inspired by BETH a hit. To quote our RB, "We are all here to learn from one another. Be active, be visible in the spirit of the site."

Sarah Gabrielle Baron

I'm in. !

Elisabeth Meier

Damn, I'm still in negotiations for writing a new script and hope to make the contract. If so, I will join you a little later...

Beth Fox Heisinger

Sarah, Elisabeth, Oliver: YES! Great to have you! ...Or, hope to have you soon, Elisabeth. :) Sarah, whatcha working on for November? Oliver, can you tell us a little more about your pilot?

Ida Thomasdotter

Do you know about NaNoWriMo? I find that it's a very helpful tool to motivate you to write, and there's lots of great support from other writers!

Beth Fox Heisinger

Sounds great, Oliver. I look forward to hearing about your progress. :)

Beth Fox Heisinger

Ida: Yup, I've heard of it. NaNoWriMo is geared towards novelists -- wannabe and otherwise. I understand it has motivated some. :) ...Let's just say, personally speaking, I have reservations about their preset, imposed, superficial "ideals" and the market-fed notion that a writer "wins!" at the end of November. What they "win?" I have no idea...

W. Keith Sewell

Perfect! This is just the 'kick in the pants" I'm sure I'll be needing in pre-prod for a 30min sitcom. Also, I hope to have our app ready to launch by the 12 days of Christmas!! Count me in Beth!

Oskar Arnarson

I have a similar plan for November as well; to outline a script from start to finish. Would be happy to join you for the momentum.

Beth Fox Heisinger

Wonderful, W. Keith and Óskar! It's great to have you! Welcome to Write Club!

Jorge J Prieto

Yeah , Kate!!

Brian Walsh

Okay, getting ready to go on this! :) I have a lot of my character groundwork done though I'll be adding a few as I proceed, but I'm excited to be part of this group and to have this incentive to get my butt in gear on this. :)

Beth Fox Heisinger

Hey Kathryn! Great minds think alike. :)

Beth Fox Heisinger

Great to hear, Brian. :) I'm excited too. We're getting closer to kick-start day.

Gary Blencowe

Beth, If you look up procrastination in the dictionary there is a picture of me!! :) This sounds like a great way to give me a kick up the backside!! I have changed from writing screenplays (my head is sore from beating it against a brick wall) and have started writing a book instead. So does your whip extend to Australia??

Beth Fox Heisinger

Gary, I'd probably be standing right next to you in that picture! I've been struggling too lately. :) You're writing a book?! Fantastic! Well, if you need a kick to get going, I'm happy to oblige. We all are! Lol! Thanks for joining the fun. :)

Gary Blencowe

Beth. What sort of a kick can you help me with? How will this all work?

Gary Blencowe

Without giving too much away.

Jorge J Prieto

Just came across this short post from Film Courage, which I think is a great advice for Beth's 30 day challenge. Once we start writing that first scene don't even dare to look back, just keep pushing forward until the 30th. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IMXbfBXqNWI

Beth Fox Heisinger

Great share, Jorge! Thank you. Pilar Alessandra is someone that I follow quite regularly and have learned much from her. Yup, just keep pushing forward. That's what I hope to do with this challenge, to not edit my work as I go, which I tend to do.

Beth Fox Heisinger

Gary, the idea here is to support each other with our individual goals, with whatever project we're working on, whatever stage, and get it done by November's end. We’ll share our individual progress, offer help and tips, and post motivational quotes to get us through this 30 day exercise. :)

Elisabeth Meier

What we all have to keep in mind please is that this is no competition. All scripts are at different levels and I think some colleagues have another full time job besides screenwriting. Meaning, we all also are at different writing levels, different experiences etc. Hence, please stay relaxed. We will see how far we will get and I would like to continue this even if it lasts till end of the year or end of January (because of the holidays). I understand it just as a great idea to motivate ourselves and share experiences, problems, cool ideas and the feeling that we are not alone or so. So, if we say 'Go Mets!"' ;) we also should say 'Go Stage32ers!' which is strange to pronounce - but it looks cool. :))

Beth Fox Heisinger

Well said, Elisabeth! I couldn't agree with you more. :)

Sarah Miller

I'm in. I have a pair of half finished screenplay that I will finish the first drafts of in November.

Samantha Anne

I already set up my NaNoWriMo page for this year - I'm excited about making it happen this year! I might just go hardcore and add a screenplay to it - 4 pgs a day would get a feature done, no? :)

Richard Morell

Count me in! I'm in a rewrite on a script that I need to basically reconceive. It's going to be like a new script in some ways but with some of the characters who were not as active taking a greater role in the story. What's next?

Beth Fox Heisinger

Welcome to November Write Club, Sarah, Walker, Samantha and Richard! Great to have you! Love the positive vibes. I look forward to hearing more about your projects. :)

Benjamin Grund

Cheers everyone - I'm in and stoked to go on this adventure with you. Thank you Beth for setting this up! I could use some solidarity and community with this project. I've got a deadline for the first draft of a horror feature due at the end of December so November will be my attempt at finishing the Second Act. I'll keep you all posted and I look forward to seeing updates on everyone's work! Cheers to the many marathons everyone and best of luck.

Brian Walsh

Okay, my friends. It's day one officially for me. I'm sitting in my local starbucks with my prep in front of me and FD open on my laptop. (I'm starting a little early since I'm away the last few days of November.) Let the games begin! :)

David Levy

I'm looking forward to seeing who I can make laugh from my first attempts at comedic shorts!

Michael J Smyth

I see RB's promoting this site-wide on the blog :)

Ryan C. Davis

Excellent idea. Thanks for coordinating this. Count me in. I have a script that's been calling for me to finish it. Here's my chance.

DeAnne Brown-Hirsch

Perfect - I'm in - rewrite in 30 days! Thank you so much!

Steven Michael

Great thread, I'm in! My political thriller has been sitting there for months. I have the story mapped out and nearly 70 pages written. It takes place in both New York and Washington, D.C. And it's full of tension and political back-stabbing. But it's also educational as I teach economics at a university. It's called "First 100". Can't wait to hear about everyone's progress.

Marli J Monroe

I'm in, Beth! This will be my first attempt at taking one of my outlines to the next level. Being a novice, I was hesitant to join in days ago...but who can resist this energy?! It's infectious, and just what I needed to finally get going! I will be working on a treatment for a docu-style T.V. series that's a bit out of the mainstream. I'm hoping to have it ready for submission by the end of November. Either way, progress is progress...and this is very exciting!!

Joi Heggins

I'm in!!!!!!!!! Great idea!

Stephen Barber

For those looking for an extra push in this support on one another... 3:19 seconds from a man who I admire. https://youtu.be/b8nb34w-lvw

Kathy Nicholas

Yes! Nothing like a little external accountability to get things moving again!

Leo Sopicki

Interesting that I had already set a goal to finish in November a script I've been working on for a long time. Then this appears in my inbox. Beth must be the cosmic screenwriting angel.

Wendy Joseph

Gotta cut the first 30 pages to pieces and restitch them to 5. Wish me luck.

Jorge J Prieto

Good luck, Wendy!!!

Sarah Hopkins

I'm a newbie and I'm in. Just received Screencraft contest feedback today on my first script and stoked to make changes....here we go!

Dalene Davies

I am already booked and committed to NaNoWriMo with a novel, but feel that I could actually add a script to the mix and still complete my goals! I know at one time the same people (NaNoWriMo) had a month for Script Frenzy (same idea- write a script in 30 days) haven't head about it in a long while. This sounds like it could be just as fun. Thanks for the suggestion- any ideas how we can track progress here?

Beth Fox Heisinger

All right! More participants! Great to have you! :) Darlene: No, we really don't have a means to track individual progress, that would entail a site buildout. We're operating on a "self-moderated but group supported system" for these 30 days. Feel free to share your progress here within this thread. We'll be posting motivational tips as we go. There'll also be more to come in the days ahead, so stay tuned. :)

Richard Morell

You probably get this question a lot at Stage 32: Is it possible to get these emails in digest form--i.e., all for one day compiled in one email? That would be a lot easier for me to be able to read them all at once as we are in the throes of the productivity; else I might have to click off the box for "send me an email for each new comment." This could become a large group and that could be rather vexing....

Beth Fox Heisinger

Richard, go to the "gear" icon, found in the upper right corner of the web site. There you can change your account settings. Scroll down to "notifications" and change your email preferences. :)

Tony Ginn

Thank you for recognizing that we are in the most creative industry in this World. The written word is always the Genesis in story telling and script writing. I learned playing basketball in College that it takes a team effort to come out a winner. In our business no reward comes without an ensemble in collaboration with one another as TEAM I want to be associated with Philanthropic professionals who have an approach during the production to discuss that any idea will always be considered from the Grip to the Producer with the best idea for implementation. I applaud your approach and you can count on me to score a win-win to get a project to the screen! Keep me informed when we have the opportunity to submit our creations for interest and consideration. God Bless You and Yours, YOLO! Shalom

Kathy Ediss

Count me in!

Evelien And Dorien Twins

Extra motivation to get this finished: After a first read-request - followed by the exec reading the teleplay & bible - , we're skype pitching a project tomorrow (one of our sci-fi series) to a company exec so if he asks what else we're currently working on... we might have this one up our sleeve, along with some other things as well!

JJ Shaughnessy

Wow, big group already! I'm a former standup comedian who had to drop out due to the effects from a bad car accident; I'm now more or less completely healed as of a couple years ago, but I lost my mojo . My goal is modest this month because I have a November 30th deadline in my day job. I simply want to write up an original 5 minute comedy set and have it edited, practiced, tweaked and ready to start performing at open mikes and old haunts by the end of the month. Once I am established back in stand-up I want to start taking Improv/Sketch classes and writing for them as well but that's a later goal. Baby steps. ;-) Best wishes to everyone-- let's do this!

Jorge J Prieto

Happy to have you, JJ and glad you are doing better from your accident. I had an accident which injured my spinal cord and had three surgeries and now I take life one day at a time, but being involved in a creative project is the best medicine. Cheers, buddy.

Evelien And Dorien Twins

happy to have you aboard JJ! Glad to see you're recovering from your accident and you're getting back to doing what you love. As you said, baby steps (speaking as people who've also been through a serious accident and went through a recovery phase) - Keep it going at your own pace, have fun and best wishes to you too!

Irene Conde

How exciting! This is exactly the push I need. I'm already 30 plus pages into my horror script, so I know this challenge will help me stay motivated. woo hoo!!!!

Regina Partee

So excited to go on this journey with you all! Looking forward to finishing a project in November!

Theresa Clark

I'm in. Very much interested in finishing my feature script.

Leo Sopicki

Funny coincidences. I mentally committed to finishing this script in November. Then I found a class to help me, which runs in November. Then this Stage 32 project appeared. Then, yesterday afternoon, I got an email from a friend at a distribution company asking me how the script was coming. The world wants this script finished.

JJ Shaughnessy

Shout out to Jorge and the Eveliendorian Twins from Begium, thanks for your post-accident encouragement. How are your projects coming along? Also to Beth Fox Heisinger, sorry, I'm new to Stage 32 and this came up when I searched "comedy writing" now I see it's for screenwriting but hope you don't mind if I tag along for now- it's a good group!

Jorge J Prieto

Hey, JJ, the doors are wide open ( I'm sure, Beth, agrees) to ALL Stage 32 family members. We are all united here by one common denominator, by our artistry and you are no exception. Great to have you, brother.

Harry Johnquest

Yes indeed. Zero Draft Thirty. I'm going for it, now working on notes to flesh out a cheap-easy production and working on the story so to draft a great script in 30 days. I believe it can be done start to finish. If not I'll have Humble Pie, 30 Days in the Hole: https://youtu.be/sdXjm8pZMws?t=3

Debbie Croysdale

@Harry LOL....no room for humble pie in this group, The Dream Team, so no reaching for backup with commiserating pop bands. @All. LAST CHANCE TOMORROW EVERYONE.....to indulge in a lazy day, so grab some ready meals and beers, and pull up a cosy chair for the Saturday movie. Play basketball or sit in the park, or window shop in the mall and gather your pals. Tweet, text, and surf over a late lingering brunch, as you revel in the Goss.....cos SUNDAY ITS SCRIPT CAMP!

Jorge J Prieto

Welcome to the club, Harry. You got this, Harry and we ALL got your back, buddy.

Gary Blencowe

Hey it's already tomorrow here in Australia so don't worry the world hasn't ended, so no excuse there :) To write or not to write that is the question! Bit of brekky first then into it, maybe, no definitely, perhaps! No have a Nike moment and " just do it!"

Beth Fox Heisinger

All right, all right, all right! Great to see you onboard: Kathy, Irene, Regina, Nancy, Theresa, JJ, Leo, and all! Love the enthusiasm! JJ: All are welcome! Ain't no shame in comedy writing. We'll probably need a good laugh in the days ahead, so help us out, okay? Lol! :) Leo: Funny coincidences indeed! Serendipity is a beautiful thing!

John Michael German

Dear Writers Club: Good luck to all who have joined the journey, and best of luck to the creative writing and story telling I'm sure you will all come up with. I've stuck to a strict regiment like this in the past, and will be fantastic to see others doing so at the same time, including myself. All the best. Sincerely, John German

Beth Fox Heisinger

Thanks, John! Much appreciated. Great to have you here! :)

Beth Fox Heisinger

Great to have you, Vince! What project will you be working on?

Vince Conside

Albino Peacocks

Vince Conside

Screen play

Evelien And Dorien Twins

We can actually start on an (extremely) high note seeing as we had a pitch meeting yesterday that went very well and we have a producer interested in shopping one of our projects! A single "yes" dumbs down the so many noes you get when you're trying to get your foot through the door & your work out there! JJ, to us there are only a few things more difficult than writing consistently good comedy so we applaud you for that! We can be funny in dialogue, but we're not comedic in our writing at all. Developing a complete comedic show would be something impossible for us to do at this point. Might be an interesting follow-up excersize: "Write a 10 page skit that is completely out of your comfort zone" LOL but let's first get through 30days of write first. We've got our creative lubricant (wine) and our story outline ready, so we're good to go...we just have to survive this halloween horror walk we're doing tonight.

Beth Fox Heisinger

Great news, Twins! I'm looking forward to hearing about your progress! I'll join you with that applause, I think writing comedy is one of the toughest things to do. Hands down.

Erica Benedikty

I watched a really cute movie the other day to put me in the spirit of writing. It's called "The Rewrite" http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2509850/?ref_=nv_sr_5 of course I do love a good rom com with Huge Grant. Defiantly a lot of inside jokes if your a screenwriter.

Beth Fox Heisinger

Happy Halloween, everyone! I'm feeling SUPER PUMPED about tomorrow! — could be the Halloween candy talking! Lol! ;) I'm a little behind with my outline, but I'm ready to hunker down and get to work! Keep an eye out for a S32 30-Day Write Club blog post tomorrow. Really looking forward to November! Let's do this!

Bridget Ellis-Pegler

I am 100% in, thanks so much Beth. I'm going to use this time to expand my treatment for a kids' feature into the first draft. I already feel excited and invigorated to see how much support and enthusiasm there is fizzing on this board.

Christopher Joseph

This is pretty cool, reminds me of that manuscript contest also. Should get Stage32 admin behind it and can be structured contest whoo hoo. My goal for November seems like an easy one, there's a contest to complete a seven page short in A4 paper size...(what is A4??) but the rules are quite constraining omg. Some of these contest rules are super tricky to fit the companies goals. It's definitely worth it so I could use the encouragement to get a well polished script off in due time. I already met my first obstacle within the rules and will probably have to scrap my original plan. Back to the drawing board! Good thing I have lots of unfinished scripts laying around! Will keep ya posted! I'm in!

Gary Blencowe

You know we should all listen to the ideas of others and not negatively dismiss them, It is so sad and a shame that when someone dies, we lose all the ideas and dreams that they did not want to mention for fear of ridicule. We should encourage everyone to purge all ideas, who knows we may uncover the next big Hollywood blockbuster, a cure for some of our most challenging and insidious diseases like cancer and Parkinson's disease or even that elusive better mouse trap.

Elisabeth Meier

Christopher - A4 is the worldwide most used paper format and short for industry norm DIN A4 which is 210 x 297 mm (= 21 x 29,7 cm). I only found this link in German: https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/A4-Format The paper norm in U.S. is a little shorter and wider (215.9 mm x 279.4 mm = 21,59 x 27,94 cm).

Evelien And Dorien Twins

COMMENTATOR: GOOD MORNING, 30 Days of Write participants! It’s a beautiful day at the starting line of our endeavour; the sun is shinng and creativity is palpable wherever we turn. From all over the world, people joining in will be gathering notes, pens and setting up stories in their Final Drafts. 30 Days of Write was brought to you courtesy of Beth Fox Heisinger and Stage 32 and has participants worldwide! Be sure to stay updated with our broadcast as 30 Days of Write gets updates from writers! That’s all we have for you right now, Beth, back to you.

Debbie Croysdale

@Eveliendorien Twins. Thanks for the cheery reminder, it's Day 1 to begin work, on all our shared ambitions. This is the beginning of a journey no one need take alone, with endless possibilities and outcomes. All the thoughts shared, we may even discover "new tangents" or pathways to getting our projects off the ground.

David Levy

Everyone, start your engines! Hope everyone starts off on a strong note today. I unfortunately have an eye doctor appointment later this morning and I know my eues will be too dilated to write. So I will have to join the party tomorrow. May the creative juies flow faster than the Nile! Happy Writing all!

Debbie Croysdale

@David. Hope your appointment went well, sometimes I've remembered fleeting thoughts and feelings during medical appointments, I have later added to stories.

Robert Rosenbaum

This is a great idea. Perhaps everyone participating should post their logline. That would be the commitment! I know I should start with posting my own logline, but as I have just finished a new screenplay I am still deciding on which of the myriad of screenplays in my ideas folder I should work on next. LOL I will make a decision and post a logline soon.

Beth Fox Heisinger

Kick-start Day! Love the positivity and enthusiasm! Thanks everyone. This is fantastic! :) David, I hope your appointment goes well for you today too. You may not be able to tap away on your computer, but a lot of writing is working things out in your head, and that you can do. :) Me, my goal for Day 1 is to finish my rough outline and write my opening. Anyone else care to share what the day holds for you?

Richard Morell

Spending kick-start day with examining the structure of one of my scripts. I have a lot on my plate for November 1st, so there won't be much time for writing. However I will be engaged in an acting class and participating in a reading of an original play with discussion to follow, so I'm still in the thick of it. November looks to be a month where I have to rearrange my writing time to the mornings--I've been writing in the evening. But it seems too much is coming up during that prime real-estate time and I need to find another time to write. Well--who needs sleep, right? Oh, my log lines: Script One: The ghost of a young man who was murdered returns to his grieving father to help him over the hump and return to the land of the living. Script Two: A closeted and newly sober religion professor gets stranded in Laramie, Wyoming and falls in love with an atheist tow-truck driver and the town of gay nightmares.

Niksa Maric

Okay, Ladies and Gentlemen. It's officially November the 1st, time 5:00 PM. (in my time zone anyway) So, since Beth stated to share progress, I'll say what it is and what stage it reached so far. At the end of the month we can all see a progress that the script made. I heard people saying TV Pilot or TV series are the hardest thing to write. So be it, I mean I'll have to step on that land-mine at one point sooner or later. So, GREEN FOREST (logline posted under loglines on my profile) "rough first draft" Pilot + 7 episodes, 484 pages in total (nothing is final yet since I have a lot of more things to research ) I'll start a Bible and polish the current pages as much I can, but once I complete the Bible I'll post it under logline so maybe some of you could give me your opinion on that. Good luck!

Erica Benedikty

Well for me I'm going to continue on the outline idea for my script. I think I'm also going to finish writing my short script that I've had open for a month now. Of course later it's off to work but that's okay, I tend to write more in the mornings then night time. Happy writing to all!

John Garrett

You know, I had considered this. But I am in preproduction of a short that will shoot the first week of December. So I am not going to commit. Too much to get done this month. However, with that said, I am still working on a feature almost every day. But it is only for about an hour a day. Those that are dedicated to getting it done this Nov, I cheer you on! Get at it and DO NOT WAVER!

Debbie Croysdale

I think it's a good idea people in this thread are putting down personal things they're attending to on official start day, it's like being in each others home, and the interaction gives "cyber energy." (Shared Positive Vibe.). I did tune in to the thread earlier, but I'm just starting my work now, due to having guests earlier on weekend. I've been putting off my Rom Com for ages, because I find it the hardest subject with regards getting into the mind of the characters. I usually write DDD....Deep, Dark, Dangerous, but this project is light hearted with happy go lucky younger people, in amusing situations. I've done first outline, draft, theme etc, but I'm doing the whole script again, with regards to the point of view of the dialogue between characters. I'm hoping to pick up new ideas as I go, on this shared journey with you all, bringing "Sean and Fin," along for the ride. (2 male leads Rom/Com). Also today is the day "To Bin" any Unnecessary time wasting Sunday rituals, Lol not the Roast, but I'm not tuning into my usual 7pm fix of Dallas.

Elisabeth Meier

Niksa - lol. Seen from the starting time we Europeans were in advantage. :)

Hailey Escobar

I love this idea! I wanted to try and do it every month because I have so many ideas, but at least I have a place to start here and, hopefully, with some support behind me. I'm still working to be more structured with my writing schedule. I tend to write fantasy and sci-fi although I have a few others that are realistic fiction or based on true stories. Spending the first day working on editing one of my other scripts while also watching "Gotham" (I work better with a film or show because it helps me with dialogue and structure) and outlining my next scripts.

Evelien And Dorien Twins

our mobile was being screw-y so we didn't have a chance to look up who did this...but it seemed apropriate for this new endeavor of ours!

Beth Fox Heisinger

Way to go, Kathryn!

David Levy

Beth & Debbie: I convinced my doctor NOT to dilate me considering I was at my specialist Friday and he took care of those tests. I dodged a bullet there! So I might be able to write an entire episode of TMI - Too Much Information in a bit. Easy to do since all sketches/videos will be 4-7 pages..

David Levy

Thanks Fiona! First episode is titled "Sex Advice". It's between a 21 year old kid and his father.

Jorge J Prieto

Hey, everyone, great post here on day one. I was up until 4 a.m. Got through the first 9 pages. Was to introduce the inciting conflict my protagonist is facing, which is should he jeopardize his soul and the love and respect of his girlfriend and mother, by becoming a strip dancer in order to make good money fast to help his beloved mother with mounting bills and a father who is about to arrive in a foreign country with no money and sick in a hospital. The antagonist (already a dancer at a gay clubs) is working his evil magic on protagonist to join him, that no one has to know. Protagonist will be a secret dancer, trained and entice by antagonist, who's motives are more personal and selfish than anything else. This is all I have to report my fellow writers from my screenplay The Secret Dancer, it's 1983. New York City and the life of an innocent 19 year old, son of a single mother, will be change forever. Stay tune, my fellow happy (November) happy writers...

David Levy

Fiona: at first the father gives it to his son then it grows into sharing the same info. Mom is nowhere in sight, lol. But I do plan on having a female version of the same title/conversation.

Erica Benedikty

Wow, nothing like crying as you finish your script. It's the best feeling in the world. I just finished a a first draft of a short 12 page Christmas script. I'll post more on it later, right now I need to wipe away my tears and get ready for work. Cheers all!

Jorge J Prieto

Totally in agreement with you my dear Kate.

Regina Partee

Hi, All! I'm getting a late start today. I love all the great comments. You all are giving me energy! About to jump in and work on my web series script again. Happy Writing All!

Kenneth W. Wood

Happy November everyone. I'm in on this challenge with you all. I am committing to a fantasy re-write which should take the first week of November. Then, I'm on to complete a first draft of a sci-fi thriller. All by November 30th. Fortunately, I've got a 15-page October jump and a good outline.

Robert Rosenbaum

Working on the logline for an idea i've had for some time. I will post it as soon as I get a working line to get some feedback. So far I like where it's going. I like this challenge.

Vince Conside

It's November already!! - I actually started yesterday morning: wrote some today - 12 pages total. Good luck everyone

Regina Partee

Okay, I got a late start, but I did 6 pages on my Web Series. That's no too bad. Thanks to you all, I also got some of the outline done for my Children's feature film! Off to a good start!

Jorge J Prieto

Kenneth, Robert, Vince , great having you on this journey, 3 amigos.

Christopher Joseph

Thank you Elisabeth for the info! All these years writing and never have stumbled across that type of paper! This contest I'm writing for is very stringent I am finding as I've already blown through now six of my script concepts and NONE meet the criteria! I have resorted to taking a small portion of one I have called 'The Pimp Is In' as part of the 'origin' of the story. Writing now, wish me well! Appreciate ya'll!

Marli J Monroe

Great progress today, since I was still navigating the sugar high from last night! I re-worked my outline and everything is falling into place. More writing tomorrow...minus the sugar. I hope everyone had a productive day!

Beth Fox Heisinger

It's great to hear a lot of you fared well today. :) Me, not so much... I had such a jammed-packed weekend that I didn't quite get the chance. I managed to do a little in between events, but not nearly what I had hoped for. So, tomorrow should be a busy, productive day. Here's to Monday!

Evelien And Dorien Twins

Since we have a lot to agree on (two of us here, haha) today mainly consisted out of brainstorming and storymapping for us. Finished the first 4 pages and quite happy with it so far. We're having a very busy couple of days ahead, but we're used to working in the middle of the night and lack-of-sleep is our middle name, so we'll steam through. We should be able to work through a large chunk tomorrow (advantage of mapping things out) so onwards we go!

Elisabeth Meier

Christopher - I think you got this contest rules wrong and take it as complicated. I understand it not as strict, it only says it shall be in a normal letter paper format and A4 is the most common. Actually this is a sign they also accept and get stuff printed and by post - maybe they only accept the printed form? I don't know, but if they accept your script uploaded as well and you write in FD, Celtic or what ever you have nothing to fear and can forget the paper format.

Debbie Croysdale

@Fiona. Hi I'm in a similar boat to you, with regards rom com research, although I don't have the added sub genre of horror. I'm used to serious horror, but have to admit, I would find laughable horror very tricky. Determined though to master this particular subject, and I'm having a group discussion with a group of "Young" barstaff later on in the week, to get a picture of what is going on in their minds about a whole range of topics.

Ryan C. Davis

Okay...Nov.1st page total is only 3, but I had to spend time dusting off the script and reading it to return to where I was when I started with ideas. Goal for today is 5 pages...

Christopher Joseph

Elisabeth, thanks I got it on the paper part. It's their rules of engagement that is throwing me off - The contest is sponsored by an alcohol company and basically you can't have any reference to alcohol maybe besides "I need a drink" plus all of your protagonists must be 25 and over - That cut out 5 of my scripts alone from their stipulations which is frustrating. Not to mention they want a tight 7 page script. If unique commercials can do it in 60 seconds I'm going for the challenge! So far, I have a ton of notes and heavy scribbles trying to get it right before I write! Whew!

Elisabeth Meier

Christopher - I see. Which company is the sponsor? Best of luck!

Michael J Smyth

2nd of November and haven't even put anything on a page. Loads of ideas swirling around in my head for some scenes that I would like to happen but just need to get it down and start arranging how i want the short to go. Good luck everyone !

Kathy Ediss

I am working on a tv pilot. Anyone else? I too, opened my script and just stared at it. Ideas running rampant but still waiting their turn to get on paper. Ok, here I go!

Sonibel Rae

I am working on completing a 45 page screenwriting assignment for school which I've been struggling with due to genre (fact based drama, I'm a comedy person) and also completing the last 10 episodes of my web series I plan to film next year. Episodes average about 5 minutes so it's not too much. I wrote 3 and a half pages yesterday and it was the most inspired I have been about the assignment so far, I'm really excited to see how much progress I make by the end of it.

Leo Sopicki

My Plan: I have about fifty pages of The Slingshot Brigade done. First 30, then random bits and pieces. 1. Complete the outline 2. Write anything to finish it without going back to edit 3. Make several passes aimed at different aspects of the script

Robert Rosenbaum

I am working on my logline and beatsheet today. I am very happy with the progress. While I've have more developed ideas than the one I've chosen for November, it is closest to my newest finished screenplay which I am currently shopping. I have been studying up on "selling your screenplay" as that has ultimately been a weak spot for me. They say you should have "one in the wings" that is in the same genre. So I am excited about making this my "what else have you got" script. I am also considering posting what I am doing with this Nov challenge on my FB page. I figure if I announce my commitment to my non screenwriting friends, I will be even more hard press to complete the challenge!

Christopher Binder

That's never a very healthy idea.

Elaine Haygood

The screenplay I'm working on currently is entitled, "And The Coming Of Nighttime". the story was inspired by two movies: "The Howling" and "Blade Runner". I've always been a fan of Werewolf films and "The Howling" literally served as a game changer for the genre-It also got me to thinking about what if Werewolves weren't just pathetic, cursed individuals leading lonely existences as they wander the country side, desperate for a cure. The Howling got me to thinking, "what if, instead of all that, they lived as a society within society?" Which of course, led me to thinking of what it means to feel like an outsider, to feel as if you have to hide the most vital aspects of yourself for fear that should others discover your secret, you, and everyone you care about would be in utter peril. I also loved "Blade Runner's" dystopian future-and flying cars. The story itself revolves around Dr. Josette Anthony, a brilliant Home girl with a PhD serving as the top Geneticist for Bio-Logical. Her husband, Stephen Durant, owner of the company and their daughter, Petra. Things get cracking when Stephen ends up turning himself into a Werewolf in a lab experiment gone horribly wrong. Anyhoo, I'm about halfway through Act 2, and actually managed to get through a scene that has been plagueing me for some time-I'm also working on a graphic novel version of the story. I'll post more in a day or so when I get more pages done.

Sylvia Marie Llewellyn

Hello EVERYONE, okay, so I knew yesterday was coming... but Sunday's are a bit of a challenge, it's usually family day around her... I shooed them all away and then sat down to watch the Royals & Mets game and then that was that. So Happy Monday to all. First of all Beth, thank you for sparking these engines. I'm going to go for it. I have Act I of a rewrite done and hope to finish the whole rewrite by the 30th. A month ago I remembered I had an 'IDEAS' folder somewhere, so I hunted it down and in the same filing cabinet I found 15 Chapters of a book I started a long time ago. Thank goodness I have the hard copy because I no longer have the disc or that computer. As soon as I'm done writing it I'm going to adapt it into a screenplay and have my own IP. Yaay. I'm all pumped up Beth. Thank you. I'll keep you posted. All the best to all in achieving your goals this month. Keep it up. xo P.S. I read most of the posts above... what a great group... just too many to read them all or I'll never get started.

Christopher Joseph

Elisabeth or for anyone it's Jameson First Shot Short Film contest in conjunction with TriggerStreet. Check the rules, they are nuts!

Andy Silverman

I spent the last 5 days in Austin and am flying home today. tomorrow I will join the fray. Applying all the new information l learned at the panels should make this my best vomit draft ever.

Elisabeth Meier

Christopher - thanks for sharing. Just checked it. They are discriminating. Have you checked the list of countries from which you may participate? A great example why we should block the information where we and our computer are located.

Anthony Cawood

@Christopher... the Jameson comp has been running for a few years now, the requirements don't seem too difficult this year and you can look at it the other way round and treat them as nice specific guidelines to deliver a script that they are looking for... though probably means writing one from scratch. Not sure what software you use for screenwriting but in most you can change the page size from US to A4 pretty easily. @Elizabeth, unfortunately it's their competition so they can restrict it as they see fit, suspect that it's probably got something to do with where they sell Jameson... there's plenty of competitions that have similar stipultions ;-(

Anthony Cawood

My script for the November challenge is a limited location thriller, tentatively entitled 'Family Bonds'. I've done the planning for it cerebrally, and aiming to write without outline or plan and see how it goes freestyling for a change. Logline A Brother and Sister struggle to make a go of their new business, but this is the least of their worries when an abusive ghost from their past returns to terrorise them one last time. Wrote four pages yesterday, hoping to achieve similar today.

Regina Partee

My focus changed a little bit on my writing today. Found out that a television pilot I wrote with a co-writer 9 years ago is finally gaining some interest. I actually haven't worked on it since I originally wrote it and he called me and said someone is interested but the script needs updating. So I'm frantically updating. Lol! Well, you know how these things go. could be sold right away, or we may be waiting another 9 years to hear anything. But at any rate, I'm going to get the rewrite done and the script resubmitted to put the ball back in their court. I've forgot about the Jameson First Shot Contest too! Thanks everybody. But for now, I'll go back to my Web Series once I finish the TV pilot rewrite. Phew! November is going to be busy! Thanks for the support of the group. I feel like I'm part of a movement of super talented people! Happy Writing!!

David Levy

One pilot I finshed a rewrite on mught have to take a backseat since I head Fox put out a pilot production commitment for a reboot of The Greatest American Hero. My concept Project: Hero is very slightly similiar in basic premise but different in SOOO many aspects. I know this kind of thing happens, still a bummer. Still going forward with it, just never know these days.

David Benitez

Hey guys, glad I found d this lounge, love the motivation, hope everyone succeed in their screenplays, I'm on page 5 my short film ,was hopping some of you guys can give me some thoughts on it, and if I can post it here?

Gary Blencowe

Something for everyone on this journey. "Know yourself, Believe in yourself and follow your heart! Pursue your passion to find fulfillment!

Gary Blencowe

And a bit of a laugh to break up the day! Stevie Wonder is playing his 1st gig in China and the place is packed to the rafters. In a bid to break the ice he asks if anyone has a request. One chap jumps out of his seat in the 1st row and shouts at the top of his voice "Play a jazz chord! play a jazz chord!" Amazed that this guy knows about the jazz influences in Stevie's career, the blind impresario starts to play an E minor scale and then goes into a difficult jazz melody for about 10 minutes. When he finishes the whole place goes wild. The chap jumps out of his seat again and shouts "No, no, play a jazz chord, play a jazz chord". A bit cheesed off by this, Stevie, being the professional that he is, dives straight in to a jazz improvisation with his band around the B flat minor chord and really tears the place apart. The crowd goes ballistic with this impromptu show of his musical expertise. But, still the little Chinese man jumps up again and shouts "No, no. Play a jazz chord, play a jazz chord". Stevie is really annoyed now that this chap doesn't seem to appreciate his playing ability and shouts to him from the stage " OK - smart arse, you get up here and do it". The little bloke climbs onto the stage, takes hold of the mike and starts to sing............ "A jazz chord to say, I ruv you... "

Sylvia Marie Llewellyn

Thanks Gary, very funny....

Beth Fox Heisinger

Hi David B. Welcome! Please post your work on your profile page, under "Logline." People can view it there, and perhaps leave comments. You can delete at any time and/or re-post as you go. Or, you can share/exchange work for review through email. :)

Evelien And Dorien Twins

Day 2 update: About 10 pages into the screenplay & an almost finished beatsheet on our end!

Stage 32 Staff - Julie

You are all inspiring me! Keep on going!

Kenneth W. Wood

Progress Report Nov. 1, 2015: I am up to page 95 in my rewrite of my fantasy screenplay, "BETWIXT AND BETWEEN, The True Origins of Peter Pan". 15 pages to go. This is an adaptation of "Peter Pan in Kensington Gardens", J.M. Barrie's prequel to Peter Pan.

Carey Fulks

Working on my second TV pilot. Outline is done, teaser is started...4 pages down and 56 left to go.

Marli J Monroe

Today turned into a research day for me. I don't mind...It is part of the journey and you never know where it's going to take you. Plus, I'm obsessed with research! Back to writing tomorrow. Great job, everyone!

Beth Fox Heisinger

Wow, great work! You guys are killing it! Truly inspiring. :) Me, I'm off to a slow start, but I should make better traction in the days ahead.

Beth Fox Heisinger

Kathryn, could I borrow some of your energy? Please? :)

Tad Wojnicki

Whoopee! I did what I promised myself! :) As Nov.1 closes, I'm sitting here at 7/11 across the street from my condo, my short script in front of me, and my fingers still hot from typing, , , It's shit, I'm sure, but it's done. I'll knock out another one Nov.2, sooo, , , Let's wish each other lots of luck! :)

Sonibel Rae

I completed 3.5 pages today. Aiming for five pages tomorrow. I'm 11 pages into the 45 page script now, really happy with the motivation this has given me.

Brian Walsh

Well, I'm 18 pages into the feature I'm writing now. It's inspiring to read all the posts and it helps get me fired up to work and not procrastinate, (which I can tend to do from time to time, but sometimes I put off procrastination to do other things).

Debbie Croysdale

Hi all. I'm off to town, meeting a group of young barstaff on their break at split shift. (Later on in the day). The end game is to gain fresh insights/perspectives in what they are thinking about, as my Rom Com is their age group. I've said before in this thread the genre is new to me, the difficulty is not in the writing, but getting inside the characters minds. I agree with Boomer above, work is not just in the writing, but the theory aswell. There are so many ways of study for writing, observation being only one. Your idea is spot on Boomer, working out ways for getting the most both in protagonist arc and story fuel.

Ryan C. Davis

I was only able to crank out 3 pages yesterday before a migraine settled in, but they were 3 great pages of dialogue. You are all inspiring me to keep with it and hone my daily routine. Thank you...

David Levy

Ryan: 3 pages is still better than none. I've only written down 2 new ideas for my comedic web series. I've been reviewing the same script over and over. An agent's assistant at APA who did coverage on my script a few months back wants me to e mail him my latest draft. Don't know how many more times I can review the damn thing before sending it!

Beth Fox Heisinger

Thanks everyone! This is great! I really love hearing how everyone is doing. :) I've had a slow start as well. Remember this is not a "competition." Everyone works in their own way. Comparing yourself to other writers' process, progress or ideals is a very very good way to feel very very bad. We certainly don't want that. ;) Boomer: I'm doing the same thing -- working it out first. I unexpectedly became so busy prior to Nov. that I was unable to prep my outline, so I'm behind where I wanted to be. However, I've been thinking more in terms of sections rather than page count and that's been helpful. :)

Shari D. Frost

a little behind -- just got home from AFF -- but excited to catch up. today I'll be working on a logline and beat sheet. by Friday I hope to have an outline. I'm inspired by you all! ready, set go!

Wendy Joseph

Yep, I'm in. Had an exec from Weinstein express interest in my WWII drama, recommending I rewrite (read that "trash") the first 30 pages. Still in denial that this super company is interested after all the rejections, but hi ho, hi ho, it's off to the chopping block I go. Any comparisons from y'all about what this little chore is like for you? I state it's like putting your head in the guillotine and loosing the blade yourself, but instead of the quick painless end it's reputed to have (can't speak from experience here), the blade severs s-l-o-w-l-y. Hmm. Now that's a scene I haven't seen in a gory slasher movie. Any takers?

Christopher Joseph

Congrats Wendy! Weinstein is huge news! I do hate slashing script I worked so diligently on, poured your heart and soul into to have somebody basically say "Hmm, this part sucks". I learned my lesson though, I missed out an opportunity with a small film company some years ago because I whined about rewriting a portion of the script. They basically ended up not using my script or me. I do it like this now, take that portion out and keep it, I basically have another in development script I can mold however way I want to. That lil piece can take me in a whole new direction! Cut that part out and make something else! Hey, are we cousins? LOL

Jorge J Prieto

Love everyone's techniques. I once I know the world my characters live in, I just dive in. Like writing teacher, Pilar Alexandra,s says, just keep going and don't look back until you are done. I know my ending b4 I start. What works for you all, you should stick to.. Page 24 of act one. Now comes the most difficult for me, act 2. Might have to visit the world my protagonists just entered, then again is 1983. Let's do this!!

Wendy Joseph

Chris, 117th cousins twice removed on my uncle's sister's aunt's brother-in-law's stepdaughter's side; shaken, not stirred. Actually it wouldn't surprise me. Any Black Irish Catholic Sweeneys or Sullivans on your side? Any Filipinos? Any Ukrainian Jews? Any Nez Perce? Any Scandinavians? Extra-terrestrials? I wouldn't be surprised if they found those last in my DNA. You never know.

Robert Rosenbaum

Day three and I'm still mostly in my head with my story. I have written (what I think is) a strong logline and begun my beat sheet. I am very happy with my progress as once I have the structure down and story developed in my head I can write the script pretty quickly. I am also getting excited about the story - which always helps.

Debbie Croysdale

Day three went well for me, even before my planned barstaff meeting, I found an unexpected source of ideas talking to the young girl who blow dried my hair in a salon. It's amazing where inspiration pops up, when out in the public tapestry of cities, some characters even stranger than fiction. (To anyone who doesn't know, I'm particularly referring to studying how young people think with view to Rom Com.)

David Benitez

Hey guys I finish my first 5 pages of my short film, wanTed to get some feedback, was hoping you guys can check it out and give me some thoughts on what you think about it so far, its in myloglines.thanks

Elaine Haygood

Working to find some good Werewolf films to help get me in the right head space-But, I got pages done yesterday and I had some done before the start, so I'm not stressing.

Sylvia Marie Llewellyn

David Levy, go ahead and send it to the Assistant that wants to read it again. If you're good with it... I'd send it... the worst that can happen is he'll give you more Notes LOL. It's a process.

Marli J Monroe

I was only able to spend a couple of hours on writing and research today, but I feel good about what I accomplished. Thank you, Beth, for getting us 'fired up and ready to go'!!

Niksa Maric

Elaine - Underworld (any of the 4 movies) is always a good choice if you need to re-charge.

Marli J Monroe

Sorry to hear about your migraine, Ryan. I hope you feel better today/tonight!

Sarah Miller

I got six pages done on one of the scripts today. Not much but more than I've done in weeks. I needed something like this challenge to actually make time to write again.

Tad Wojnicki

Nov.2, I got a start on my 2nd short titled, "Acapulco at a Knife Point." I did just 2 pages, but hey, 2 pages is already 2 pages, right? :) I hope everybody is doing a splendid job.

Sylvia Marie Llewellyn

Yaay Kass... 10 pages is fantastic. xo

Beth Fox Heisinger

Hey Marli. You're welcome. :) I'm just happy to see you're feeling good about your own work. That's fantastic!

Beth Fox Heisinger

Wow, everyone is doing great! :) Happy to hear you feel more inspired to write, Sarah M. Sometimes a little push helps. :)

Wendy Joseph

Elaine, Benicio Del Toro's turn as the Wolfman, with Anthony Hopkins (2010), caught my fancy. (Though anything from any Del Toro usually does) And the original with Lon Chaney Jr. (1941) still cuts it. For laughs, there's I Was A Teenage Werewolf (1957) which is nevertheless touching. And a step further off, there's I Married A Monster From Outer Space (1958), whose non-CG, Gothic-lighted Man turned to Monster is still as terrifying as anything digital.

Sylvia Marie Llewellyn

WENDY!!! You're truly a horror fan. You put a smile on my face with your post. I don't watch horrors, but you definitely put a smile on my face with your enthusiasm. I'd watch Benicio in anything he does... except horror although I know it's very popular. If I can't watch it... I can't write it. LOL.

Brian Walsh

I was thinking about this whole group today and was trying to put it in proper perspective. It's fantastic of course to have all this encouragement and inspiration as an incentive to work a little harder and do more, but it's also an opportunity to build better habits and continue afterward to write more often and take this work seriously. So while I'm enjoying the camaraderie, I also want to build this kind of initiative into my work habits. So thank you all for helping me on many levels.

Evelien And Dorien Twins

Let's talk a bit about what everyone's writing (other than the updates)! Do you feel you're writing something totally within your comfort zone or are you venturing out into new territory? What genre are you writing, any subgenres? Do you have a logline already or are you the kind of writer who writes loglines based on what they have written prior? We sort of feel like we're venturing out because we're not used to writing comedy but this one came to mind 2 weeks ago and we're having a lot of fun devising believable storylines around the hoax-hook. ------ We're currently writing a comedy with a faux sci-fi element to it. Title: Soundstage 51 Logline (in progress): The U.S. Government has a public image problem. To counter their slew of bad press, they set up a giant soundstage underneath the Arizona desert...

Ryan C. Davis

So, no actual writing yesterday, but brainstormed and outlined for short film script competition. Nice break from writing, but ready to dive back into it today!

Kenneth W. Wood

Alright. As of 11:48AM yesterday, Oklahoma City Thunder time, I am finished with my re-write of "BETWIXT AND BETWEEN, The True Origins of Peter Pan". It's hot and ready to pitch—something I will be doing all of November. When I am not pitching, I will be working on my next screenplay to get it ready before month's end.

Regina Partee

I had a good start, but over the last couple of days, I haven't had a chance to even get on the computer to write 1 word. BUT, I'm back on track today. I have a couple of hours of free time - YAY! Getting on the computer now. Happy Writing, Everyone!

Beth Fox Heisinger

Hey Twins. I'm writing in my comfort zone, but working faster than I normally do. I'm trying to embrace the first draft by pushing through and not rewriting immediately -- like usual. It's been difficult, but the process is getting better. I'm considering the first draft as 'telling the story to myself,' a "sketch," if you will. Then, the real hard work begins. Lol! :) Your project sounds fun! -- a different take, kind of like "Wag the Dog?" My first thought about your "logline in progress," is be sure to clearly set up the stakes -- perhaps raise them? I know it's a comedy, but "a public image problem" seems a bit vague and "typical." Is it more focused on one person, the President, perhaps? Or, perhaps, does it revolve around a specific, huge image problem? :)

David Levy

I agree with Beth on the public image problem. Instead of the Government you could narrow it down to more of an agency within the Govt. In "Wag The Dog" they had to repair the President's image in about 7-10 days before the election. Great film and book. I'm stepping outside my comfort zone today and brainstorming the characters and arcs for my first sitcom about a retired NFL QB from too many injuries who takes over his father's financial services firm and staffs it with the last people anyone would want to hire, but they're effective and get the job done. Calling it "Business As Usual". I think Tyler Blake sounds like a good NFL QB name. Opinions?

Evelien And Dorien Twins

The logline we placed is the one we came up with while the storyline was developing in our minds, we usually leave it purposely vague to start off with as to not suffocate ourselves with tunnel vision LOL - we only write the ’full’ and ’’official’ LL after we’ve finished the first draft

Evelien And Dorien Twins

(Why does the mobile/app version of S32 often leave out chunks of posts you make??) -- originally added to the comment above was ’it’s part of our personal process!

Beth Fox Heisinger

Sure, makes sense, Twins. Everything's a work in progress -- especially within this thread. :)

David Levy

This thread reminds me of a Kenny Rogers song he did early in his career titled "Just Dropped In (To See What Condition My Condition Was In)". But this is more like "Just Dropped In (To See What Condition Everyone Else's Writing Condition Is In).

Beth Fox Heisinger

David L., perhaps flip it -- Blake Tyler. Have you ever seen the spoof sports names videos by Key & Peele? East/West College Bowl. Hilarious! My favorite name is: Hingle McCringleberry. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gODZzSOelss

David Levy

Beth: YES! I have watched that over and over, hysterical. My favorite: Fudge!

Shari D. Frost

Reporting in: Yesterday I completed a basic beat sheet and the first 2/3 of my outline (I'm at the toughest part, can you tell? Oy.) That's generally my process -- a beat sheet and a two page outline. Then I start drafting. Hopefully I'll be reading to start drafting by Monday. E. Twins - I'm writing in my comfort zone, give or take a few story elements that I expect to find challenging. Decided to go with the dramedy idea (my third, and what's that saying? "third time's a charm?) and hold off on the low budget sci fi for winter/spring. I have the beginnings of a logline but I won't even post it yet, because I will rewrite it at least 500 times before November is over :0P Beth -- love this!: "I'm trying to embrace the first draft by pushing through and not rewriting immediately." I made that same switch and found it incredibly liberating and motivating at the same time. Getting to the end offers such a great sense of accomplishment, and in turn, tons of positive energy to tackle all rewrites. Happy writing everyone!

Vince Conside

Hey everyone! Didn't write yesterday: but did finish reading The Hateful Eight - wrote today!

Jorge J Prieto

Hey, gang, I didn't write today, but my brain is on overdrive, working out the next 3 scenes. This is the only way I know how to work. I love surprises from my characters. As I've said b4 on another thread, I let my characters control me, to a certain point. As an actor I get in my characters psyche , once I know their motives and what makes them tick, I go on their journey with them, both male /female /old/young /crazy or sane. I'm not writing out of my comfort zone, so this is not hard, especially like I said b4, I know my ending before I start. It's always my goal that my characters learn something by the end, as well as my readers and ultimately my audience. Loving everyone's process and enthusiasm. Good luck everyone. Ps. My logline, should be up, very soon. I usually work on my loglines after I finish my screenplay. Anyone with me on this one?? I think I'm alone on this one???

Steven Michael

I didn't write anything until today. I was really busy with my other project - building my hot-rod in my garage. But today I wrote 10 pages. This screenplay was far along before today (70 pages) so nearly all of the plot points were already worked out. It's a thriller with many diversions and moving parts, so much of my work happens by thinking about the best ways to lay out the information I want to say. The best way to describe this is it's where the science of economics meets the slimy world of politics (I teach economics, I'm not slimy). And it shines a light on the most overlooked and misunderstood aspect of world economies - central banks and bankers.

Robert Rosenbaum

I had a rough day on all fronts today, but I did manage to make some progress on my beat sheet and some character development in my head. I'm still trying to flush out my hero. I also put some time into research crucial to my hero's work. My process is to be able to play the scenes in my head before writing them. This challenge is helping me focus and develop my story quickly. I plan to type "Fade in" this weekend. I see here everyone's process is a little different. It is fun to share this journey on so many different roads.

Marli J Monroe

I'm definitely not writing in my comfort zone, but my Stage 32 t-shirt arrived in the mail today and now I need to kick this up a notch! Sh** just got real!!! Ok, it doesn't have quite the same impact when censored, but you get the gist. : ) Today was a 'character day' with a bit of research thrown in for good measure. Everything leads to research with me...I find it soothing. Everyone here is a great inspiration! Thanks!

Elaine Haygood

Thing is, I suck at loglines nearly as much as I suck at pitches-I still shudder at those sessions at the AFI wherein I would do my best to sum up my script in 2-5 sentences only to hear, "Nice, so what's the story about?". I'm going to wait until I get the script version of ATCON done before I list any loglines-I also have to wait until I can get the script registered before I can post it here. Damn, I'm lame. Anyhoo, spent the day doing domestic stuff and hope to get back to writing tomorrow. I tend to do a handwritten draft and then start on a digital one which gives me a chance to start editing/revisions-I know that's a bit slow, but it's what works for me.

Sylvia Marie Llewellyn

That's great!!!... whatever works to inspire us is good.

Elaine Haygood

Wendy, thanks for the list-I've seen all those films-Was very taken with Emily Blunt's character in the Del Torro and Nikisa, I LOVE the Underworld films, though, they're a bit disappointing as they fail to show any sort of real culture for the Lycans and no females since the birth of Lucien-I have 3 of those but right now, I'm thinking something along the lines of Dog soldiers for pure Lycan rage and I O want to get hold of a copy of Howl-I'm also going to watch The Howling this weekend along with Bladerunner to revisit my original inspirations. An, VERY sorry I failed to answer you guys sooner, but I only tend to check my emails once a day lately and so I tend to miss out on your posts at the time you make them.

Erica Benedikty

Great picture Eveliendorien Twins! That pretty much sums up TV Producing as well. I'm gonna try and get some more work done on a script tomorrow night. Then I'll finally be off for a couple of days.

David Levy

First two pages in the books of my first ever sitcom! Comedy seems to talk to me more.It put all the other voices in my head on hold, they hate Polka music.

Sylvia Marie Llewellyn

I'll see you all on Sunday... by then I should have something to report on my progress. Or please feel free to message me on my wall. Good night all. xoxo

Anthony Cawood

For those seeking help with structure, loglines etc... have a look at http://www.storyplanner.com/ basic membership is free, decent set of tools all in one place for a change!

Wendy Joseph

Elaine, my first novel started out on a notepad in longhand, and I still scribble ideas and dialogue with a pen on whatever paper is at hand. Until the typewriter came along in the 19th century, everybody wrote in longhand, which covers some pretty bloody good writers from Shakespeare to Edgar Allen Poe. The best editing program in the world is no match for my scribbles, arrows, cross-outs, and assorted indicators in my longhand drafts. The tools we use to write with are not the important things; the words are. I even used a quill pen and inkwell to draft a story set in 1812, and it definitely helped the writing to do it the way it was done then.

Gary Blencowe

Thanks Anthony, looks like a great resource. Have not been doing a lot of writing but have been prompted with this november shindig to do some work on a Social Media experiment that I will be unleashing soon.

Beth Fox Heisinger

Thanks for the the link, Anthony. Very helpful! :)

Niksa Maric

When they are introduced or mentioned for the first time. Usually in your screenplay's introduction stage. After that, simply write John, Mike, Sandra...etc. Also when you describe them for the first time, mention age, give short physical description, mention what their job is (if you think it's necessary.

Niksa Maric

Okay, if this PATIENT is mentioned or appears in your script again then first time describe him and use CAPITAL letters. As for doctors, maybe just their job description and age. Wait until someone else responses to this but that's how I would do it.

Beth Fox Heisinger

Andrew L., I posted an answer to your link. :) The thing to keep in mind is clarity. You want to create a clear picture and a terse narrative. For background characters that are functional use a nomenclature to both name and describe them: DOCTOR, PATIENT, STERN NURSE, BURLY ORDERLY. Age is often unnecessary, but of course it depends on your scene and story. :) I hope that helps!

Tad Wojnicki

Happy to report that I'm doing, so far, just as promised here on Nov.1 :) I promised to write this month 1-to-10 shorts, give my feature a final polish, , , and maybe, just maybe, tackle another stalled, jumbled feature . . .It's midnight, Nov.5, and I've just finished my 2nd short titled, "Acapulco at a Knife Point." Time to fill the glass. Tonight, Merlot. A sip anyone?

Wendy Joseph

"Zero Draft Sixty"! Love it!

Debbie Croysdale

A bland couple of days, no great revelations but got stuck into the necessary outline.

Tony Ginn

Somebody mentioned writing a Horror Story. I have a WIP titled Idi Amin " Fear of the Zombies " and a Sequel " Vampire Boy: Return to Evil ". Story line is IDI, a Demonic Alien comes to Earth to become the Leader of the Zombies. His ritual is to have a Virgin kill an infected Zombie and bring the blood of the kill to Idi. She kisses him with the blood in her mouth and Idi eats her flesh down to the bone. ( He is a Cannibal ) All around his Golden throne has the bones of the virgin he devoured as trophies above his throne. He has one virgin serving as his Queen to impregnate, to create another race of Zombies after killing all human beings on the planet and returning to his fortress on a planet in Space. Vampire Boy is his offspring to carry on his Legacy to do Evil deeds. A real Horror Story, I think!

Sarah Gabrielle Baron

Day five of Thirty Days of Editing, Re-writing, Editing, Cutting and Slashing, Re-writing, Editing, Polish polish polishing. I don't know if I can keep this up, it's so nit-picky (dare I say tedious?). But I had a good thought today : I will know this script SO WELL by the time I'm done, if I have to pitch it to rounds and rounds of execs, even it's five years from now, I'll know it cold.

Sarah Gabrielle Baron

Tony, pretty gory (but fun!) stuff! Try this: try swapping all the gender roles! I'm thinking of doing this for the re-write of my first spec, 'ATOMIC HEIGHTS' which is a typical boy-saves-girl post-apocalyptic action movie. After FURY ROAD, I thought, hell, why not?

Beth Fox Heisinger

Sorry to hear you had a bland couple of days, Debbie. ...Okay, try this mantra. Repeat after me: "I am my own Muse. I am my own Muse." Hey, it often works for me. Lol! ;)

Tony Ginn

Sarah, thanks for the suggestion. I will consider it, eh! I have relatives in Canada, the Hudlin/Alexander Family that dates back to Sarah Hudlin in 1619. We also have a Museum dedicated to my family in Victoria, the Hudlin Alexander Family Museum on upper Saanich. Also, Great, Great, Great, Great, Great Uncle, Richard Alexander built the first Church and School on Salt Spring Island! Perhaps, we can meet one day! I believe in Women in Film! Gender switch suggests seduction to me.

Elisabeth Meier

I am my own Muse? I'm healthy. I'm creative, I know how to do this, I know how to write, I love writing this story, I can't wait to beat Kathryn with her pages because she will reach she point when she needs to breathe and take a break ;), I am behind the rest - but I don't care, I'm a great screenwriter, I will make it - even if I need until x-mas and don't write a word in November, I am a part of this nevertheless. lol.

Debbie Croysdale

This thread is awesome. @Boomer. Your bad day sounds like a good scene to add to for comedy or horror. Two dogs have locked the car door with you outside, and you need the key code but your mobile fails and your in the middle of the desert.etc etc. Lol. Life does keep getting in the way, luckily the catastrophes are usually minimum and salvageable, and the computer is still looming in the horizon. @Eveliendorian Twins Re post on what we all doing, my genre is Rom Com, totally new to me. Your picture further up in the thread really tickled me, the cartoon character un phased by the pressure of self imposed deadline. Also another comment that hit the spot describing writing comedy from @David "Puts all the other voices in my head on hold" couldn't agree more, writing this morning some light hearted teenage jinxes, put my belligerent pre coffee fix frame of mind in another space. (Lol for a few minutes anyway.). @Elaine Your new take on Werewolves sounds intriguing with a few wild cards not seen in other films. @Beth Thanks for the inspiration "Muse saying." IT'S NOT BEEN A WEEK YET FOLKS AND ALREADY FEELS LIKE IVE JOINED AN ARMY......THAT IS ACTUALLY GOING TO ARRIVE. ....BY 30th.

Erica Benedikty

I think what's awesome about this besides the overwhelming support here, is the fact that it's put our own writing to the forefront. It's not like we don't think about it ever day, but for those of use who have life get in the way writing we are forced to figure out ways around this. By trying to maximize every moment we can to take up this personal challenge. In stead of getting home tire and saying I'll write something tomorrow, I read the success stories in this post and I'm like YEAH, I can do this! Even if it mean only writing a couple of lines or working on a little more research. So last night even though I was tired I started on my logline for the short story I wrote for this 30 day challenge. I feel comfortable if I only end up completing a short story and not the full feature script that I was planning on.

Beth Fox Heisinger

Haha, you're welcome, Debbie and Boomer! :) Elisabeth, the Muse thing is just a fun bit of positive mojo. Got you fired up! Lol! :)

Beth Fox Heisinger

Clubbers, please keep in mind this is not a competition. Comparing yourself to others is a BIG no-no. It’ll just make you feel like you can’t measure up. This isn't about page count or word count or how fast or how slow you work. This "race" is a personal one. So, no competitive stuff, all right? ;)

Beth Fox Heisinger

Okay, here's my new daily mantra: "I can fix this in rewrite." :)

Beth Fox Heisinger

You're welcome, Anna. Happy to hear it! Sounds like you're doing great and working hard. ;)

Beth Fox Heisinger

Fiona, my dear, I'm growing concerned... Is this tutor imposing his process, his writing style, his subjective opinions upon you? This is YOUR work, not his. Working for HIS approval sounds oppressive, not creative, not encouraging. :/

Wendy Joseph

Tony: Really, fellow wordsmith, I'm disappointed in you. Surely you can amp up the body count and gore factor a little more than that?! There's just not enough blood, sweetheart! The Makeup and FX people won't have enough to do--after all, they need to make a living too! ;) As far as drawing from family background, my great-great grandmother was a Madame in turn of the 19th-20th century Seattle, and I think there's a story there about women's choices or lack thereof in the Old West. On the comedy side, my great-uncle George invented the Pogo stick and there might be a cutie of a story there, as main plot or comic subplot. Elisabeth and Erica: My first novel took 25 years to write. One short play took three years. Another took three days. Nobody gives two shakes how long it took you to write something, only if it's good or not. Sarah: Yeah, Fury Road was definitely Ms.Theron's movie; Max was literally just along for the ride. I was impressed by how the action never outweighed the story line and character development. It's a good movie to analyze for story structure. And how about those gun totin,' straight shootin' biker grannies?! Talk about good roles for older women!

Tony Ginn

First, I thought this opportunity to share our works is to collaborate and not criticize. We have make-up Artists in Seattle that I will engage at a future date to go to our Sag-Aftra Studio ( Free ) to develop a You Tube Video once my WIP is done for the Demonic Zombie. As far as family history goes, documented, I can trace back 10 generations from three tribes. More than Kunte Kinte. Are you a Member of Sag-Aftra? You are not my Sweetheart, but I forgive You! God Bless. Oh, by the way, I do work with Women in Film!

Tony Ginn

Anna, Do you know what Sweet Apple means? Correct spelling is HANNUKKA. also known as, CHANNUKUH. Google the Words for the definition. Shalom

Robert Rosenbaum

I'm still pounding out my story in my head. I have a logline and beat sheet. I did it all very fast. I know it will change, but that's OK. I have the structure and I plan on diving in on the script tomorrow.

Kenneth W. Wood

Progress Report: Oct. 28-Nov. 4 was a rewrite, of script #1, BETWIXT AND BETWEEN, was 17 pages plus a final polishing. Yesterday, Nov. 5, I added 5 new pages on script #2 (up to page 20) This one's fun, but also an out-and-out Sci-Fi-brain buster. I could use a collaborator on this one. Any Sci-Fi pros. out there?

Beth Fox Heisinger

Sounds great, Robert! :) I've had to back up some. I did start my first draft, but decided to go back to my outline and rethink a few things before returning to my first draft. I'm a little frustrated, but I know it's the right approach. :)

Jorge J Prieto

Okay, finished Act One, 34 pages and an intriguing finish, which even surprised me because as you all know, I write as an audience member. I enjoy the process as an spectator. Now, I have a question. The loglines, should we post them here or on our profile? Now, that's for those of us who decide to make them public here on Stage 32. I understand many have concerns about posting their loglines with out first having their scripts copyright.

Robert Rosenbaum

It's a process, Beth. That's the fun of it!

Elisabeth Meier

@Anna, yes, but it's early this year from 6-14. Hence, we would win only 6 additional days.

Beth Fox Heisinger

Yup, a fun process indeed, Robert! :) Jorge, please post your work on your profile page. There will also be weekly check-in blogs on Sundays for Clubers to share November progress as well.

Niksa Maric

Happy Festival of Light to you as well Anna. I'm pretty sure projects don't move much, only we who create them do. We move a lot.

Vince Conside

Hey everyone, pretty good day, three pages completed - added some new ideas to my step outline - keep writing people... Just sit and write - "Be kind to one another" E.G

Marli J Monroe

I hit a bit of a snag yesterday with the logline, so I decided to step away for awhile and return with a fresh take on it. When I read it again today, two new ideas hit me immediately, research ensued, and I had an 'aha' moment. Hopefully, the 'aha' doesn't lose it's momentum overnight. If so...I am my own muse!!! Perfect mantra, Beth...I will need to repeat it often! : ) Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!

Christopher Joseph

Still messing around with Jameson First Shot, no alcohol, nobody under 25. Had to dig in and really revamp and retool. Believe I have something concrete, about 4 pages in and will have to rewind a bit as this has to be a tight 7 page script. Thinking mostly visual setup, bulk of dialogue between main two protagonists. Time to chop chop chop it up and see what scraps come out. 'The Pimp Is IN" After earning his psychology degree in prison an ex-convict by chance saves a suicidal socialite before incurring media scrutiny. (Logline in progress) Any feedback?

Wendy Joseph

Sounds intriguing, Chris. Lots of cross-social world opportunities. I'm going for it too, with a spoofy contemporary film noir where the detective and two of the three tough guys are women. Logline: A jaded detective realizes the missing songstress she's been hired to locate is a target for murder.

Jorge J Prieto

Christopher, Wendy took the words out my mouth, intriguing. I like it, just you can incorporate a "but" or "however" in your logline to show stake or risk involved in the process of saving... I like your hook, though about someone once a menace to society, now helping another human being in need of saving. Hope this helped a bit, buddy.

Jorge J Prieto

@BETH, thanks. You did mention already to post our loglines on our profile. Sorry, I have a real bad head cold, headache, runny nose and Eyes. Terrible, but I'm pushing forward on my screenplay The Secret Dancer. Got 45 pages written. You'll be amazed how a writers own health transfers to your characters. My. Protagonists is not having a good day in my last scene and he takes out on his girlfriend. Weird, but are both having a rough time. Weird? No, crazy. Hey at least I'm laughing now as I write this. THANKS BETH, girlfriend!

Jorge J Prieto

It's passed 2am, took 2 Benadryl hours ago and still runny nose and eyes. The song mama said there be days like this, there be days like this. Mama said, just popped into my head. Hey tomorrow can only get better, my fellow November writers clubbers. Let's ALL do this!

Erica Benedikty

For Jorge, Soft Kitty...Warm Kitty... Little ball of fur.... happy kitty, sleepy kitty, purr purr purr.

Regina Partee

Hi All! I've been kinda out of it the last couple of days. I did manage to get about 10 pages in total done over the last couple of days, but wasn't feeling to well, so I was kinda bed bound. BUT I did get a chance to watch some Christmas movies on Hallmark - a tradition for my mom and I. I saw a couple of comments about posting loglines, but I think I missed the original post. Are we posting those loglines here or on our profiles? Thanks!

Beth Fox Heisinger

Sorry to hear you haven't been feeling well, Regina. That certainly puts a damper on things. Hopefully you'll feel better soon. :) If you wish to post/share your work, the best and preferred place to do so is on your profile page. You can also share/exchange scripts for review through email. There will also be a check-in blog tomorrow to post about your progress.

Erica Benedikty

Soft kitty is for you too Regina, feel better soon.

Warren Frost

Same Beth I am working on ruling out distraction

Wendy Joseph

Got some work done yesterday on the shortie for the Jameson contest. Nice to do something that has a clear end in sight because it's only a few pages. It's also a good exercise in packing a lot into a little. Now I've no excuse for getting back to work on the feature length script, the outline for another, the idea shuffling for a third, the languishing novel, the laundry, the preparations for moving, the laundry, the kitty litter box, the laundry, shopping for curtains and a microwave, the laundry, looking for another job, the laundry . . .

Tony Ginn

Hello to all my colleagues. Just checking in with all of you. Currently finishing edits on my SYFY the " Void Trilogy " Episode l and will share soon. " Void Trilogy " ll and lll are WIP's with a following sequel Millennium 4016 in draft form. Note: Void ll and lll are an adaptation from Frank Herbert and Bill Ransom's book the " Jesus Incident " and Destination:Void by Frank Herbert ( Dune Movies ). I met Frank Herbert in 1972 in Port Townsend, WA. " Pursuit ", Buffalo Soldiers ", Summer Camp " and my Grandfathers Story " They All Played Ragtime " uploaded to share. Still writing!

Marli J Monroe

Hi Tony, I'm looking forward to reading "Void Trilogy" Episode 1! I read Dune a few months ago and became obsessed with all 800 pages. I cried when I finished it. Frank Herbert was a visionary...I'm sure it was an honor to have met him! Thanks for sharing!

Tony Ginn

Amy. I spent time in Rose, OR back in 1976 when I worked for Texaco Inc. We held our training seminars there. Perhaps, when I send the " Void " to share we can talk to each other or send me your email address and I will submit directly to you. You can Google: Tony Ginn for Profile. My contact information is there! Are you a Signatory to Sag-Aftra? HAVE SOME FUN TODAY!

Tony Ginn

Correction. This post was for Marli regarding the Void! My Bad!

Elisabeth Meier

@Anna/Hanna - Thank you, likewise! And my project is growing. Slowly, but it's getting forwards. How about yours?

Beth Fox Heisinger

30-Day Write Club Participants: Please refrain from starting additional "November Club" threads. There is a method to all this wonderful madness. :) Please post about your November projects and writing progress within this thread or on the 30-Day Write Club weekly check-in blogs -- one will post later today around 2pm PST. The weekly blogs will occur every Sunday in November. We'd like to keep participants posting in the same locations, either in this ongoing November thread or on the weekly check-in blogs, so we can better monitor progress and see who's participating. You can comment on each others' work within the blogs. Thanks! :) ...Oh, just a side note: In general, if posting about your work, like posting a logline, please do so in the Your Stage section.

Wendy Joseph

Tony, no harm intended with my facetious "not enough blood!" comments. It is interesting to track the use of blood and gore over film history, from scenes no one would show in earlier days to today's in your face anatomy lessons. Personally I believe that bloody scenes, like any other element, should be used with an eye to how they add to dramatic effect/advance the story/show character. Any thoughts from others on writing these scenes? There are audiences who can't get enough Type 0 Positive as well as those who avoid films with violent bloodletting. I have numerous violent death scenes in my current work, so this is a professional concern. Additional viewpoints are welcome. And I call everybody "sweetheart," including my computer. As a lifelong Bogie fan, it's part of my lingua franca. So the SAG/AFTRA workshop is still going in Seattle? Took part about ten years ago. Helpful. All right, Tony and all you inkstained sweethearts, it's back to work for me till my soul bleeds out of my fingers onto the keys and my guts splatter over the screen.

Elisabeth Meier

I already find it annoying today that I have to scroll through 345 comments to find the ones who replied to mine. Sure, I understand the reasons, but it's a bad idea to hold this all here for the next 22 days. A serious exchange of ideas or problem discussion is already impossible now.

Beth Fox Heisinger

Elisabeth, and everyone, again, there will be Weekly Blogs to post your progress and comments. Maybe, I will start another thread. Patience please.

Robert Rosenbaum
349 - While I usually am in favor of threaded comments, I am enjoying this flat discourse. I think I get what you're trying to do here, Beth. It's less about the specifics of what we're doing and more about collective support in just getting it done - at least for me. Anyways, I'm starting to recognize the players here, so I can keep track of who's doing what in my head. I tend to work a lot in my head - lol. Today I've spent much of the time flushing out my characters and the progression of my story. I'm finishing the outline - in my head - and am about to begin writing the first act. Hi ho, hi ho…
Sarah Gabrielle Baron

Wow, Tony, you MET FRANK HERBERT!! I read all the Dune books as a teen, they continue to affect me! I just watched the movie the other day, but I had to stop because I forgot how crazy weird David Cronenberg went with it, and I was watching with my 11 year old. And Wendy, I'm totally going to submit to the Jameson contest. I'd never heard of it before! So, me, 30 days of re-write. Day 6: Just re-read, re-read, then re-read someone's feed-back notes from an earlier script swap, realized ACT 2 was still messed up, printed it Day 7: Had a good talk with my 16year old daughter (she's been my 'first reader' for HEAVEN'S EARTH, gawd I'm lucky) and realized I could afford to cut out 3 minor characters, so I did it last night, went from 111 pages to 108! Now have to insert more character development for Jen in a revitalized Act 2. Re-writing sucks, but I think I'm getting better at it. It's a skill I know I'll have to have to succeed in the world of screenwriting! You guys are awesome. KEEP WRITING!!!

Anthony Cawood

@Sarah... was Lynch not Cronenberg that directed Dune... would have been a lot weirder if Jodorwsky had directed it as originaly intended, there's a great docuementary on subject - http://jodorowskysdune.com/ My firts week has seen 23 pages completed, going well so far but heading into sticky second act... fingers crossed!

Beth Fox Heisinger

Okay, the 30-Day Write Club Weekly Check-in Blog is up! ..Sorry, I would include a direct link, but I'm away from my computer and on my phone. :)

Evelien And Dorien Twins

Here you go, Beth! https://www.stage32.com/blog/Stage-32-November-30-Day-Write-Club-Forging... We were out of the country for a couple of days so we'll need to catch up (sometimes, clients have to come first!) but we'll get there!

Beth Fox Heisinger

Thanks Twins!

Hans Nielsen

Got a comedy feature going about a tiger....just starting really.

Wendy Joseph

My Jameson contest piece is done! Yippee! A little love letter to film noir; if it doesn't win I'd like to go indie with it.

Debbie Croysdale

Just spent three days research without writing. Never done comedy before, so been studying the particular Special uses of Sub Plots within this genre. In serious stuff I use the subplot to add meat to the middle section, or build up main plot to a high tension then switch to subplot to keep any reader eager. Wasn't sure with Rom Com cos never done it before, it's hard enough getting into easy story mode, by that I mean I light hearted angle on life from a lackadaisical pair of Romeos. Im enjoying the ride of this thread, thinking of it from an Indie film angle, I would direct it as Snapshot moments in people's homes with a slice of what their usual day is like. Hopefully the end result ......a few accepted scripts in offices across the world.

David Levy

Good morning all! Feels good to come back from Rhode Island Comic Con with a fresh short film concept. When you syrround yourself with people who ooze nothing but drama, the script writes itself! Not to mention a GREAT conversation with the Karate Kid himself Ralph Macchio. We have a mutual acquaintance so when I told him about TMI and the first episode, he was intrigued. Said I would step aside if he found it funny enough to be in. Glad I obtained some contact info so lets see where the next few weeks take me!

David Levy

@Elisabth: Unfortunately I am not since the script has altered greatly after receiving great notes from a few sources. I do have another script I do need some notes on. A concept very near and dear to me I have tremendous faith in. Not many concepts out there focus on bullying and its long term effects on victims.

W. Keith Sewell

Looks like I joined the club under another account with my name, anyone have any ideas on combining accts? I'd hate to lose the connections on the other... Anyways, I got off to a great start this morning on EP3 of DownTown - a sitcom centered around the clashes between the eccentric characters in the LGBT community and the law... thanks for the motivation.

Kathy Ediss

Does anyone else just write without an outline? I seem to always do this then go back and rewrite/edit.

Beth Fox Heisinger

W. Keith: You probably posted in one of the November 30-Day Write Club blogs -- so, you're good! This is the ongoing thread. :) Plus, I'm keeping track of this thread and all of the blog posts. If you haven't posted on this week's "check-in" blog, please do! Go to: https://www.stage32.com/blog/Stage-32-November-30-Day-Write-Club-Forging...

Beth Fox Heisinger

David L -- You met frickin' Ralph Macchio?! How fun! I loved the original Karate Kid!

Beth Fox Heisinger

Kathy, I have worked without an outline. It only went well because I had the whole thing figured out in my head -- every element. But normally, I tend to start with a not-so-detailed-outline, focusing on the broad strokes, and begin a rough first draft. Often I work on the two simultaneously. I like to keep things open for discovery. :)

David Levy

BEth: Ha ha! Him and a few others. I am not much of a Comic Con authgraph hound but once I knew I had a connect there, I had to talk to him.

Nancy Newbauer

Kathy, I write an outline as I go along. I know ... strange, right? I basically have the first few scenes so well played out in my head I just go for it. As I'm writing those first few scenes, my mind is racing 10 scenes ahead ... so, I'll just jot down a rough outline of those scenes. I'll do this pretty much until I write FADE OUT. And for me, I edit as I go along. I envy people who can do a "vomit" draft. I've tried, just can't do it. On the upside, although it does take me longer to finish the rough draft, I usually have the script I'm hoping for in 2 or three passes! :)

Beth Fox Heisinger

Nancy, that's exactly my process as well -- to a tee. However, with this November exercise, I'm trying to work without editing myself. Stay true to my process, but keep pushing forward and not rewrite as I go. Experiment a little. :)

Kathy Ediss

Nancy - yes I've done that also. I guess we just have to do what works for each of us! Write on!

Tony Ginn

Nancy. keep going Girlfriend. I've been writing for 4 years now. I have done so many re-writes that I get dizzy. So, my remedy is to leave my Loft, get out in the street and see how folks are living. Do something FUN! I have experienced my moments over my 66 years as a creative process for a lifetime. My story starts with a dream then an idea then a story then a script then a teleplay! So, I always never give up and by no means let anyone take away my Dreams. I guess that is why I'm writing my Autobiography. It could be a book that becomes a Motion Picture. Perhaps, Posthumously recognized! A Spiritual Journey for sure!

Nancy Newbauer

Thank you Tony. Inspiring words indeed. (And yep, I do like my fun :)!

Vince Conside

Hey everyone! 12 pages: yesterday and today - 26 total since I started... Keep writing everyone

Jorge J Prieto

Thanks, Vince, Tony, Nancy, we are ALL in this together and we will finish as one. Can't wait to read all your loglines for this in your profiles.

Marli J Monroe

I wasn't able to focus on writing over the weekend, but yesterday I researched a new train of thought, and today I think I was able to pull it all together. I'm close to finishing the first draft of my first treatment. My goal for the end of the month is to have the treatment ready for registration, so I can start approaching the talent soon. We'll see how it goes. This is all new to me! Even when I get pulled away from writing (kicking and screaming), I can't wait to get back at it. Going through the writing process with the group has been exhilarating...Thanks to everyone for sticking with this!

Jorge J Prieto

We are right with you, Merli, to end of this November journey as I'm in with my characters journey. Lets do it!

Caitlin McCarthy

Just got over a nasty bug, so I've only written 4 pages of a 60 page TV spec script. Because of my demanding survival job, I can write 2 pages or so a day -- so I'll be finishing my draft after the 1st of Dec. But my goal date for a finished draft is Dec. 11. Onward and upward!!

Tony Ginn

Google Bi-Polar Actors! We are a rare breed! I was diagnosed in 1977 by Doctor. Raymond Kaplan in LA! No depression her, just Manic behavior! In my Autobiography I draw attention to this condition. It is not a disease! Thank God for Psychiatrists.

Wendy Joseph

Any writer who claims to be normal is lying. What normal person would do what we do? Currently I'm living in a barn with two cats and a chamber pot. Coyotes howl at night and there are mysterious creakings about. There is cell phone/internet reception, running water, a sink, and electricity. I tune in classical music on the radio, and it is perfect for writing. Got the Jameson contest short polished off and am heading back into the feature. Any others have input on what writing conditions are best for you? Some of them may work for the rest of us.

Sarah Gabrielle Baron

Caitlin, Kathryn, all of you, you are WARRIORS! Give yourself treats (a walk in a forest..?)! Me, day 8 finished (for now) edits & re-writes for HEAVEN's EARTH. Day 9 visited with the Muse whilst cleaning up the supper dishes. Day 10, followed up on that visit with the Muse and wrote 'Senses' (for the Jameson contest...which is very cool, and free, btw). Day 11: did a lot of uploading & fixing up on my loglines page (yay! We can control the order of our stories now! I put my 3 shorts up). Started reading another new writer's work...awesome characters & dialogue (yeah, that's you, Warren!). Seriously considering buying a session with an exec via st32's Consulting with Happy Writers for HEAVEN'S EARTH, but second-guessing if I deserve spending this kind of cash on myself. This is the first time in almost a year I have done something for my writing career EVERY SINGLE DAY. Knowing you folks are doing the same is helping to drive me, even on those days when there's 100 other jobs that need doing.

Jorge J Prieto

A BIG CONGRATS, Kathryn, girlfriend. You make this group proud. I'm on page 71, have about 25 to go. I've read one logline so far, my new buddy, Andrew from England, my is also up on profile, can't wait to read more. Let's do this, guys!

Regina Partee

I keep getting stuck and not writing on some days, then doing about 4 or 5 pages the next. Ive decided to try something different. I'm going to write the major points from my outline and worry about filling out the in between scenes on the next go around... unless I have them in mind already while I'm writing. Lol! Still trying not to edit as I go. So hard!

Debbie Croysdale

This thread truly is awesome, not only a ray of light regards writing ideas, but touches on human issues deeper within. With regards location for writing question, I too favour a basic cabin in Scandinavia, which I use on occasion. There are many cats around which I find therapeutic, even if only to work out how they conned me that day, or others that hang on my shoulder so I become their prisoner. @Kathryn I haven't forgotten my cat folder link, ( mentioned months back) I will post it around Christmas. @All. It's true we all have off days, as many have mentioned in this thread, and get no writing done. This is all part of the process of being human beings, I found an amusing phrase today during study that relates to Stale periods of inactivity. Quote. "It would be wise not to worry too much about the sterile periods. They ventilate the subject and instil into it the reality of daily life." Andre Gide.

Kenneth W. Wood

Sometimes life gets in the way of my dreams (screenwriting) and sometimes my dreams get in the way of my life. Striking a balance between managing the present and building for the future is always a challenge.

Wendy Joseph

Is there anything more theraputic than a purring cat snuggled up for an ears and cheeks rub? Re. the sterile times, brain research has shown that our brains are working in many areas in many ways even though we're not aware of this. Just because something is not in your conscious mind doesn't mean it's not there, only submerged, and the word or idea or plot point may suddenly surface.

Ryan C. Davis

Been out of the loop for a couple of days, but keeping up with the writing. Knee deep in Act 2 of the first part of my trilogy. This has been such an amazing experience, receiving the support and insight. I have a greater confidence in completing my project this month. Thank you, all...

David Levy

15 pages into my first multi camera sitcom "Business As Suaul". Should have another 4-5 pages done today. Man do I love comedy!

Beth Fox Heisinger

Wow, I'm so happy to hear you guys are having a great experience and doing well. I gotta say, this has been incredibly helpful to me -- knowing you all are out there, focused, driven, and that we're all working "together." Love it! I wish to send out a big virtual hug to each and every one of you. Thank you so much!

Debbie Croysdale

@Wendy lol Yep Cats.....when they make that rattle snake throttle and gaze widely into your eyes, nothing like it, even if they make off with the best portions in the ready meal. @Boomer Glad your making headway and feeling the va va voom. @All A lot of the times we get stuck, for various different reasons. I came across this fun quote today. "If you are in difficulties with a book (script), try the element of surprise, attack it at an hour when it isn't expecting it." H. G. Wells. Last night I woke up at 5 and decided to sit down, as a test to see if I could start writing, after the initial push I was well away to half an A4 notebook. I turned to pen and paper because the illumination and noises on my computer screen were pretty ghastly compared with wanting to snuggle back into my dream. By dim lamplight, writing in a post slumber stupor, leant a new angle to my thought patterns. Some stuff is in the script I had not thought of during times "I felt like writing."

Jorge J Prieto

Excellent advice, Debbie. I've getting up in the middle of the night and really gotten lots of completed scenes in continuity. The strange and exiting thing about this challenge, is that it forced many of us, I speak for myself, to get a complete story from beginning to end in 30 days or less, when I only had a vague idea of a story, one that I was afraid to visit, since I had to go back to 1983 a painful, challenging, turning point in my life and yet I went for it by asking myself, "what if? and once I dived in, the scenes just popped up. Although this story is 80% fiction, some scenes are true. I'm on page 71. Thanks, BETH. Would love to know everyone else's story development process, if you care to share?

Marli J Monroe

Debbie and Wendy, it's great to hear you mention your cats in relation to your writing! Two and a half weeks ago, I agreed to keep a kitten that was rescued from the flood waters in Austin. My son will be bringing her to me in December and I can't wait...perhaps she will inspire my writing as well?!? I recently started over in life, so we will be helping each other...We're both getting another chance! Now back to writing (sans kitten for now)... : )

Sarah Hopkins

Met my goal of reviewing three contest feedbacks and incorporated them (well, MOST of the suggestions...there are always a couple things/themes/characters we won't compromise on, right?!) in my rewrite. My first feature is done(ish) after four drafts! Had a meet up with a mentor and am beating out THREE ideas for my next possible scripts. LOOOOVING NOVEMBER.:)

Wendy Joseph

Marli, I think one reason so many writers are into cats is that a cat's behavior is very much like the writing process itself: quiet but present, sedentary but aware and ready to take off after a mouse/idea when it shows up. And the purr is like an engine running, that can jump start dead mental batteries without jumper cables. Hope your new kitty helps you write. Mine helped me finish my Jameson short. And cats never criticize your work.

Tony Ginn

WOW, Beth! You and RB are geniuses. This exercise is so informative, collaborative, exciting and FUN! You have my previous submissions and now I am getting closer daily with my edits for the " Void Trilogy " Episode 1 and 2 ( WIP ) & 3 (WIP ). I have started on a sequel titled " Millennium 4016 : In Search of God " ( WIP ). God Bless You and Yours. Shalom

Robert Rosenbaum

I've had quite a bad week. Some serious personal events that put me three days behind - assuming I can get back on track today. Reading all the posts helps. Both the setbacks and triumphs of this group encourage me to push through and continue with the goal of a first draft by the end of the month. My preliminary work is done. I have just begun on the script itself. I am looking forward to a quiet weekend and a lot of writing.

Beth Fox Heisinger

We're here for you, Robert. Just stay the course and do what you can. Please don't overstress yourself. Adjust your goals if need be. :) Have a wonderful and productive weekend. Better days are ahead!

Wendy Joseph

Robert - just keep writing. Life is full of crap. Just keep going.

Debbie Croysdale

@Marli Apart from helping you to write, she will also begin hatching her plot to get "the best pieces of Christmas turkey". From a curious kitten to crafty cat, prepare for a loveable antagonist, ready to outwit any writer. @Jorge My comment last night ended up in another thread, that it's great your honing back to 1983, and writing your own ending on this particular chapter. I don't know why these posts sometimes end up in the wrong area, but I've noticed it several times in other people's columns. @Robert I feel the same as you, in that reading the setbacks and triumphs of this thread, really helps navigate my own journey. Hope the aftermath of those serious events, gets less and less each day, and new energy takes hold. @All This thread Rocks, lol.....my script feels secondary to tuning in here now.

Andy Silverman

Finally finished the outline and vomited out 17 pages today. Very witches wart.(ugly and on the nose) but they're on the page.

Jorge J Prieto

@Debbie, I read your first message on the other thread, thanks. Everyone, I've taken a two day break. Somehow as I'm approaching my climax, which will have violence and death, a tradition in all my scripts, I've been feeling a bit sick, literally. It could all be from the long nights of no sleep, living in my characters world (one a bit close to home of passed experiences) or it could be separation anxiety as I say goodbye to 1983 one more time. In any event, hope to get some more work done this weekend. I wish everyone a creative weekend, as RB, would say. Cheers, happy , November, writers.

Kenneth W. Wood

Keep writing!!! Jerry Seinfeld read this quote from an athlete and applied it to the importance of script writing everyday: “When you practice a sport a lot, you literally become a broadband: the nerve pathway in your brain contains a lot more information. As soon as you stop practicing, the pathway begins shrinking back down.” I got my story 5 more pages down the road today.

Erica Benedikty

Okay, I've started on the second draft of my short script. I've enjoyed the feedback I've received so far and it's got me thinking and reworking. The original short story was more of a dark story with a happy ending. It was never intended for a Holiday Christmas classic or family movie. Not to say it was gory or anything like that but I more so envisioned this as an entry for the film festival circuit. More of a stylized show piece. Now I'm looking at changing that and bringing it more in line with a fun holiday movie. Not saying the first draft couldn't work for a short, I'm just not sure of the ending and if it comes across the way I wanted it too or if its too daring so to speak. So back to typing, I hope to have the second draft done by the end of this upcoming week.

Leotien Parlevliet

Brandon is viewing the pitch of my script again I rewrote a second time. Meanwhile. I write letters which is also very inspiring and useful; Before I draw up the letter, I visualize the person and the expression on his face when he´s reading the letter

Tony Ginn

Ramping up Y all', The " Void Trilogy " Episode 1 is almost ready to launch. Just connecting the dot's at this moment!

Mark Gunnion

I'm about 6 pages behind schedule!

Kenneth W. Wood

It was a good day writing. I'm up to page 33. Keeping it exciting.

Beth Fox Heisinger

Hmmm, yeah. Perhaps... ;)

Niksa Maric

Hey, why not? Just like The Fruit of the Month club. C'mon Beth. Be original and say YES.

Sylvia Marie Llewellyn

It's Sunday again Beth. Are you starting a new thread or do we continue on here?

Beth Fox Heisinger

HaHa! Well, let's get through November first. Speaking of which, there will be a Check-in blog later today -- around 2pm PST. Be sure to comment. Thanks all! :)

Beth Fox Heisinger

We'll stick with one November thread in the Screenwriting section and all the blog posts -- there will be a total of 6 blog posts by the end of November. Today's will be up later, again, around 2pm PST. :) We're halfway there people! We're at the midpoint -- November 15!

Tony Ginn

Beth, you are so close and yet so far away. I have mentioned previously that at age 66 I am technologically challenged. I have read several comments from our colleagues that submissions uploaded to the sharing site are being reviewed with comments from professionals involved in this exercise. Where do I go to access the views and comments? As we are at the midpoint of your creation I am jazzed with the inspiration of other writers to participate. Thank You is not enough. Shalom

Beth Fox Heisinger

Hi Tony. :) Well, I'm not sure what "submissions" you are referring to as this is not a competition. But, as a member of Stage 32, you may upload your personal work onto your profile page under "Loglines," which is located within the middle menu bar on your profile page. Anyone can view your work there. Viewers/readers/other members can leave comments under your logline posts if they choose. Whether those viewers are "professional" or not, I really cannot say. Perhaps take a look at the site's Help section to provide you with possible answers to any navigational issues you might have -- https://www.stage32.com/help. Be sure to glance through "frequently asked questions" as well. :) I hope that helps.

Walker Hare

I signed up for this and then on November 1st, while preparing to start writing my feature, I was inspired by an idea I had to make a commercial for the Doritos Crash the Super Bowl contest. I had to put down my feature script on page 1 and focus on the commercial idea if I would get it done by today's deadline. I've been silently cheering each and every one of you on as I see your updates, all while focused on a goal of my own. Now that I have finished the commercial, I am back in to write as much as I can this month. I am so inspired by what everyone is doing. Please take the 30 seconds to check out my spec commercial and vote 5 stars if you're so inclined and feel free to share away. Thanks so much and KEEP WRITING https://crashthesuperbowl.doritos.com/video/3268

Tony Ginn

I realize this is not a completion, As far as so close, yet, far away, I reside in Tacoma. I hope once the conclusion of this discussion is done on 11/30/15, perhaps, we can meet at the Sag-Aftra office in Seattle to get to know one another! Thank you for the information. I will follow up as you have instructed. YOLO!

Nancy Newbauer

Walker - just saw your Doritos spec. Happy to give you five stars. It's really funny ... and gets the product out there :) ! OK, now I really want some Doritos. Best of luck!

Beth Fox Heisinger

Walker, while I greatly appreciate your enthusiasm, support and participation in our November Write Club, I'd rather you share your spec advertising video in the "Your Stage" section of the Lounge. It would be better placed there. Thanks. :)

Beth Fox Heisinger

Okay, Write Club, the "Halfway There" weekly check-in blog post is up! Please let us know how you're doing! Thanks all! https://www.stage32.com/blog/Stage-32-November-30-Day-Write-Club-Halfway...

Gary Blencowe

Have been laid up for a few days with a bladder infection, have a couple of days off work so taking advantage. I would like to thank those who have put me onto the Jameson comp. Kevin Spacey is one of my all time favourite actors, what a dream that would be to work with him. I believe I have come up with an idea that would be a challenge for Maggie Gyllenhaal to perform. I have one question for everyone on how to overcome something that plagues me. I come up with great ideas, write down notes when I think of them but when I sit down to actually start to write I get this negative voice in my head talking me out of it and then everything stops and I cant put two words together. When I have the inspiration to write it seems to be always at the wrong time when I have something else on or I am trying to get to sleep! Any advice would be great, you all seem to be so well this month

Debbie Croysdale

Hi Gary Negative voices are just part of the process, the very fact that writing down ideas is "important" in our creations, makes the negativities of life seem more Frankenstein in this particular moment. As writers we need to make our statement special. There never will be a special time to write. Negative thoughts probably wouldn't matter that much watching a sports match, or making Spag Boll, or going to the grocery store, but when doing a thing as important as writing..... negative thoughts may seem more intense because of the importance of the project. Let the negative thoughts come, don't fight them, they are only thoughts. Just let the thoughts come, fighting them as you know freezes you. Welcome the negative thoughts as a bad friend, full of baloney, it's the no longer mattering that counts. Once the baloney no longer matters, you have a masterpiece. All the best in your November project.

Beth Fox Heisinger

Gary, I'm so sorry to hear you're having some health problems -- that certainly doesn't help! It also sounds like you are currently battling self-doubt. We all do. Every day. It's something I'm very familiar with. As creatives we all know it's not so much the writing that's hard. What's hard is sitting down to write. The way I battle self-doubt is: focus on the work and leave myself out of it. The more excited, and focused I become about the work the more those defeated feelings subside. But, more importantly: Give yourself a break! If things are "off" right now, roll with it. If ideas are coming at night perhaps keep a notebook on your nightstand and jot ideas down as they come. You may feel a sense of ease and be able to get back to sleep. Do try to get some rest. Perhaps read something that inspires you. If you had a goal for November perhaps adjust it. Do whatever fits better and gets you back to feeling more like yourself. :)

Sylvia Marie Llewellyn

Hi Gary, my sentiments as Beth's above. Take care of yourself. That's the most important part. Everything else will fall into place. Take care. :-))

Wendy Joseph

I have times like that as well. Best thing seems to be to doodle a bit, not take it all too seriously, and then do something unrelated to relax.

Gary Blencowe

Thank you so much ladies, really appreciate the advice and well wishes. Was able to get some stuff down today. Wow writing a short in just seven pages is a lot different to a long one, having to really go back and condense without losing the essence of the story. Got 3 pages in and then thought oh oh! I only have 4 pages left.

Wendy Joseph

Gary, writing a short is kind of like writing haiku--you really have to pack a lot into a little. It's good discipline.

David Levy

Morning or afternoon all. I'm about 18 pages into my sitcom. Had a rough time trying to nail down the right jokes for some dialogue but I got through it. Felt like I was driving a Mini Cooper staring up at the Rocky Mountains. Knew it wasn't going to be easy, but went ahead anyway. Yeah it was a litle rough but I made it through. Now the writing is back at optimal speed!

Tony Ginn

Hello fellow writers. Today in the NW we are experiencing high winds up to 45 miles per hour. Power failures everywhere and trees falling on houses. Torrential rains causing rising rivers at flood stage levels and car accidents creating delays! Great day for writing, because I am not going outside unless I absolutely have to. I will continue adding pages to my SYFY until my power goes out. Then, I will turn off my computer until my computer turns on me! Stay Dry and HAVE SOME FUN TODAY!

Sylvia Marie Llewellyn

Stay safe Tony.

Beth Fox Heisinger

I'm glad you managed okay, Tony. :) The Pacific Northwest was crazy today! What a storm! Horizontal rain. Roaring winds. I heard several trees go down around me, but my power only flickered here and there. I'd hear a loud CRACK followed by a long sliding crash -- I live right next to the Grand Forest. I kept jumping up from my desk, ready to run for it, thinking one was about to hit the house. Then, the worst happened: I lost internet. Nooooooooooo! Luckily, by evening, it was back up. Lol! Hopefully, everyone else in Washington state fared okay and is safe and sound. :)

Sylvia Marie Llewellyn

Yikes Beth.... that's a pretty scary storm. Glad you're okay and the trees didn't damage your house/property.

Tony Ginn

Glad you are safe and back online, As far as these storms go, it ain't over till it's over! Stopped writing for the moment to watch the FLSH, then, iZomie next. Might get some some ideas for my blood a guts horror film " IDI the Dominic Zombie. I least iZombie has some black Zombies as Extra's. Unlike Z Nation being shot in Spokane. Going to check out how many Brown Actors have lead roles or starring roles. Suppose that is why I wrote my own stuff to create characters that reflect the AMERICN SCENE! Still want to meet you after 11/30 to share stories and Co-write together! Have a wonderful Thanksgiving with your Family! God Bless You and Yours, Shalom Isaiah 40:31

Wendy Joseph

Good news, Beth and Tony. No problems up here in Bellingham. How about a story line re. a bunch of people stranded in a cabin during a storm--including a wanted killer? Oh wait, they did that in Key Largo. Maybe a new version with a different plot?

Tony Ginn

The news said you got winds in excess of 50+ miles per hour. How about this for a story line. A Governors daughter is abducted by the Zeta Cartel who distributes MJ and Heroin, Arms Dealing and Sex trafficking. During a Storm, Law enforcement locates her in a Marina, only she is airlifted to a Helicopter and dropped off to a gay pimp at a private airport who puts her in the sex trafficking organization as the featured prostitute for Wealthy men! " Pursuit " WIP!

Niksa Maric

@Wendy Identity (2003) with John Cusack That was a good movie. Similar plot.

Tony Ginn

Niksa, " Hot Pursuit " was a TV series I got cast in back in the day. " Pursuit " was a Mace Neufeld Production and the Chick Flick ' Pursuit " I don't see any where any more. My Project titled " Pursuit " is based mostly on a factual story that is still affecting the subjects I described in the story line I presented to Wendy with a few little twists to the script that I am currently seeking financing for that has been submitted to Producers and Executive Producers who I have known for 30+ years. My project ( Pilot ) is a made for networks Detective Story. Happy Thanksgiving!

Elaine Haygood

Beth, be careful girlie. You're the glue that holds us al together these days. I am happy at least to report that I've actually managed to get some handwritten pages done today-It's funny, gory death scenes I can write in my sleep these days. But, those scenes where there's quite a bit of intrigue still throw me.

Beth Fox Heisinger

No worries, it's all blue skies today. Lol!

Jorge J Prieto

As Annie would sing - the sun will come out tomorrow! Excellent news, BETH.

Jorge J Prieto

On the creative front, been doing lots of research on Google in reference to some traumatic event that my lead character goes through. It's amazing how much information you can find on Google, on any subject and how many writers search the same topic before me. I gotta say I learned something new today - that you can ask Google practically anything, even police investigation tactics or crime scene investigation as I.did on my last screenplay, which was my first crime /drama. Just sharing what I learned, which I had someone pointed to google back in August when I asked right here on S32, the same question. Hey, I know you are very busy,. Right? Just keeping it real, if you know what I mean. I should be done with my first draft of The Secret Dancer, in two days. Happy writing fellow November writers!!

Sylvia Marie Llewellyn

Hey Kass, Great news. You go girl. Beth has a new thread... for the second half of this month. Now I'm confused. I thought Beth started a new thread every Sunday. Am I wrong?

Beth Fox Heisinger

Sylvia, there's this ongoing thread in the Screenwriting section and a Check-in blog every Sunday this month to monitor everyone's progress during November. That's it. Simple. :)

Evelien And Dorien Twins

We first of all think kudos should go out to Beth for making what's turning out to be one of the longest threads we've ever seen on Stage32 ;) A couple of updates from our neck of the woods. We've been steadily moving forward with "Soundstage 51" however things have gotten a little more hectic than we expected this November! In the last week & a half, we found out we'll be moving countries at the beginning of December where a job will be waiting for us- which is something that's taking up quite a lot of time. We've also been suffering from the flu, which isn't exactly good for the creative flow ;) - Also some exciting talk about one of our screenplays but we'll update once everything's dotted and crossed. On top of that, we found a narrator for a documentary we're currently in the planning stages of! So busy, busy days! hope all is well, here!

David Levy

Morning all. I have only 2 pages to go to finish the first act of my sitcom. While I have been thinking of the right jokes to finish the first act with, I kept the humor writing going for my TMI project. I was able to write a nice 4.5 page script for an episode titled "The Confessional". Influence for it comes from the Zucker Brothers "Kentucky Fried Movie". Should be a funny little one.

Beth Fox Heisinger

Really exciting news, Twins! Congratulations! I'm so sorry to hear you both have the flu. That's awful! Boomer, you're ill too? Bronchitis? So sorry, that's the worse. Do get some rest and please take care of yourself. :) David, happy to hear you're doing well with your writing. That's wonderful. Me, I've had to make adjustments. My script is proving to be more complicated than I originally thought, which is a good thing -- great, actually. If I emerge after November with clear direction and a solid basis for a rewrite, I'll be thrilled. :) I'm happy to hear everyone else is managing well -- Jorge, Kathryn, Elaine, and others! Onward!

Kenneth W. Wood

I'm up to page 38. Medical SyFys demand a lot of research.

Robert Rosenbaum

It's seems as though the Universe has aligned against the idea of me writing for the last few days. (Although based on entries here perhaps it is sunspots effecting us all!) But in defiance of whatever forces, I have been developing the script in my brain, working on the theme and even mind-writing scenes. (Thanks for the inspiration, Beth.) Today it appears the Universe has other things on its mind. So I have locked myself in my office (figuratively, as my office has no door) and set in to a full day of writing. I will check in later…

David Levy

It's hard to write at times when these two jokers keep jumping on my lap.

Nancy Newbauer

Love the Zucker Brothers, David. They hail from my hometown - Milwaukee! Would love to read "The Confessional" when it's done. BTW - why are "your cuties" sticking their tongues out at you?! :) Twins - you get sick together too?! :) Totally get it, I'm a twin also. What country you moving too? Very exciting. Best of Luck. I am up to page 20 on my "coming-of-age" story. Had to put that on the back burner however - when I recently got a "request" from Intrigue Productions (first one) Not complaining mind you, but had to spend some time brushing up my sci-fi comedy to send out. Also got word from a past client that she'd like to hire me to re-work her romance/surfing script. (she's from AUS) November is turning into quite a productive month. Hope I didn't just jinx myself! :) Happy Writing All!

David Levy

@Nancy: My boys, Monty and Barney, always look for someone to lick right after they've lapped up some water. Sometimes the lick the air afterward just for the sake of licking. They lick a lot. As soon as I tighten up some of the humor I always enjoy seeing if I can make others laugh. There is one titled "Sex Advice" I wrote I have yet to have anyone read. It's a 5 pager and solid.

Marli J Monroe

It sounds like a number of us have been fighting illnesses and storms this week. I hope everyone is doing much better today. And congratulations to the Twins!! Very exciting news!! This week was an odd one, so I chose to spend most of my time on research. I stumbled upon something that could have proven to be either a roadblock or a game stopper, but I see it as a positive development...better to discover it sooner rather than later, so I can begin working it to my advantage. The changes may affect my initial goal, but that's OK. Afterall, challenges are part of life (and writing), so bring them on and I will adapt! : ) It's always great to read about all of the progress being made by others in the club...Still as motivating and inspiring as ever!! Have a wonderful Friday!

Evelien And Dorien Twins

@nancy Yes, we do get ill at the same time usually. Unfortunately this time it's the flu rather than a common cold, so it's really kicking us down. We'll be packing up our belongings in Belgium and moving to the UK (to Luton, about 50 minutes away from London by train). We welcome the change. From a creative POV, we're possibly at the worst places ever so London should be a nice change of pace. Congratulations on your request! Thanks to @marli and @Beth also!

Jorge J Prieto

Boomer, Twins, get well soon. Congrats, Twins on new job. Lets stay positive and get this done. My goal for my second year here was to have SIX screenplays completed, it's happening. Thanks, BETH. Would love to see EVERYONE'S loglines in a new, single thread. It's that possible? Just a suggestion. Also wouldn't be great if we ALL at the same time in a single month not far from November (like new years resolution) sign up for a PITCH, on the same month, with the coordination of happy writers, JOEY and his team? BETH, this is your baby, you can bring it to the table. Another SUGGESTION, a logline written pitch or like I said before, a mega group, collective pitch at a discount? Hey, I'm not working so any small discount helps and is time that I (others here) start pitching, now that I have six finished spec scripts. RICHARD BOTTO, JOEY T., BETH, fellow writers, what do say???

Wendy Joseph

I like it, Jorge. Beth?

Jorge J Prieto

Thanks, WENDY. Just trying to keep the momentum going and benefit everyone including this, our website.

Debbie Croysdale

To all unwell this week. I've also been fighting flu, but what really knocked me out was the recent world news. A double wamme. Never before have I realised how lucky I am, to wake up and be in the position to be able to write. Have a great weekend all.

Beth Fox Heisinger

Jorge, and everyone, it was already stated at the very beginning of our November writing endeavors that there would be "kudos" given at the end of the month for participants. Those details are currently being decided. You may post loglines or talk about your November projects on the Check-in blogs. Could be a great way to close the month -- share your progress, final goals, next steps or loglines. Those blogs have given us lots of opportunity to talk about our work. There will be a blog post this Sunday and next. :)

Erica Benedikty

I'm excited, it's been a great experience this month so far. I'm just putting finishing touches on my short script and it should be ready by the end of the month.

Beth Fox Heisinger

I am too, Erica. I've had a lot of fun! Thanks everyone!

William Martell

Though I'm not working on a screenplay or novel this month, I am working on a book on the Terminator films... and I just broke 40,000 words. (Since Nov 1) Plan to have it finished and up on Amazon for Black Friday.

Robert Rosenbaum

Yesterday did turnout to be a productive day. I filled out my outline, clarified structure and theme and scribed eleven more pages. I'm hoping to keep the streak going today. I am also thoroughly impressed by all the writers involved here. Beyond credits and accomplishments, which there seems to be plenty, the dedication is inspiring. I am not saying this to blow smoke up your butts! I have had a long battle with writing and have often felt totally isolated. (I'm not good in a room.) This is a great experience for me on so many levels. Thanks to all. Looking forward to the wrap party!

Jorge J Prieto

Great positive post, Robert, right back at you, brother. The feeling is mutual.

David Levy

Get better soon, Boomer. The bronchial sickness really sucks. Do what you can and it sounds like you are. Any little bit each day helps. I reflect in the same fashion, I'm sure many of us do. When you realize things aren't as bad as you think. Keep your head high, you have the positive attitude. Finished the Act one and half the sitcom yesterday. Flushing out the Second Act today and firming up the humor for "The Confessional" which should be set before Gobble Day.

Evelien And Dorien Twins

It's Friday so we can all affort to hang loose just a little https://youtu.be/GlTEjlHXXkw

Debbie Croysdale

I've decided to do an all nighter write fest, then treat myself to a cafes full breakfast. @Boomer Get Well Soon @Robert I know the whole "universe against script feeling" aswell. One disaster after the other with my notebook, screen froze and had to take it into store, then my newly paid up for the whole year anti virus, flashed a box "your trial has expired you are not secure." To guard against more jinxes I'm sat up using a pen and paper. LOL Bring back the typewriter! Nothing could go much wrong with them. @All Happy Weekend.

Jorge J Prieto

Lol! Bring back the typewriter. I love it.

Tony Ginn

Someone mentioned research. Well, the " Void Trilogy Episode 1 " is about an extraterrestrial that I have characterized as an Alien depicted as the Evil One who is trying to destroy Earth. This Devil escapes through Episodes 2 & 3 at ends up at his Fortress on Tau Ceti to begin his experimentation to alter the DNA of the Humans that he has captured from Earth to create another Alien Race. I researched the subject on PBS, NASA, and newspaper articles and more to determine if there is something else out there. I have determined that there is! I am at home, as I injured my knee doing Karaoke with a Live Band behind me. I guess you could say " Break a Leg ". I sure can't slide like James brown that I could do in my youth. My mind says yes, yes when my body says no, no. Got to slow down at age 66! Finishing the final edits for my SYFY. Other Stories are in an outline form. I love this business because, I don't have to do this, but, I am blessed to get to do this and " LIGHT MY OWN FUSE "! God Bless You and Yours during this Holiday Season.....Gobble, Gobble, Gobble! Shalom

Elisabeth Meier

It's a pity that my contract is still in negotiations because I wanted to participate in this November writing with this particular script. Is here anyone in a similar situation who couldn't start a script in November and would like to do this with me in December/January instead? Please let me know.

Niksa Maric

I'll do it Elisabeth. What else is there to do, nothing much where I am. So, what's the plan?

Kenneth W. Wood

Where am I on my Sci-Fi? The plot thickens! The conventional stuff isn't getting the job done. Now, it's time for drastic measures. I'm thinking a cranial drill, electrode implants and going off the grid. Not for my story characters, but for me. At page 41.

Anthony Cawood

45 pages in, got stuck at about page 30 and used John August's Writer Emergency Pack to get me out of it, worked a charm ;-) Still hopeful of getting this first draft finished within the month.

Anthony Cawood

Hey Kathryn It's available on Amazon - http://www.amazon.com/Writer-Emergency-Pack/dp/B00R6ZLIOY/ref=sr_1_1?ie=... and directly on John's site - http://store.johnaugust.com/collections/frontpage/products/writer-emerge... There's more detail on John's site on how it all works. Anthony

Elisabeth Meier

Dear Niksa, just a kind of writing together but over a distance, exchanging problems when we stick, encouraging each other, discussing critical points in our scripts etc. Don't know if we should fix it to a month because of all the holidays. What would you think how it could work?

Anthony Cawood

48, snuck in a few more pages before new series of The Bridge distracted me, god it's well written!

Beth Fox Heisinger

Boomer, I'm so happy to hear you're feeling better and writing. :)

Beth Fox Heisinger

Anthony, wow, you're doing great! Thanks for sharing information about John August's Writer Emergency Pack—I've been meaning to buy those myself! And, YES, The Bridge is so well written! Have you read the pilot? I can send a pdf to you if you like. :)

Beth Fox Heisinger

Thanks again, everyone, for commenting, keeping us all updated, and sharing positive vibes. I love to see how y'all are doing! I'm afraid I have fallen behind with my own writing, but I feel more emboldened because of you. :) There'll be a Check-in blog later today around 2:00pm PST. Please take advantage and post about your project, what you're working on. I can't stress enough about participation throughout the month; be visible, let us know about your progress. ...Let's just say it ensures your "kudos" at the wrap up—which you'll love. ;)

Anthony Cawood

Thanks Beth, and pleased to say that the new series is great! And yes would love to see the script. Sorry to hear you've fallen behind, probably spent too much time supporting us rabble - but we do appreciate it!

Beth Fox Heisinger

Aw, thanks! It's been my pleasure. This November thing blew up to be more than I expected, but it's been a blast! Absolutely wonderful! :) ...Hmmm, I don't know if I have your email address, Anthony. Send me a private message and I'll send the pdf to you pronto!

Beth Fox Heisinger

Okay, 30-Day Write Club, the Check-in blog for November 22 is up! Please do comment. Thanks all! https://www.stage32.com/blog/Stage-32-November-30-Day-Write-Club-The-Hom...

Robert Rosenbaum

I typed "The End" today. Before you congratulate me... I got stuck after "breaking into two," but instead of stopping to ponder for weeks, I just jumped ahead to the end of the story and wrote the final scenes. Not only did this keep me moving forward, but I think it will help with some of the setups I need to write in act two as I have already written the pay-offs.

Sylvia Marie Llewellyn

Congrats Robert... never look back while you're writing your first draft. Don't worry about getting stuck... breaking into two or three... no sweat. Go again. All the best to you... it's your process and that's okay.

Jorge J Prieto

Totally in agreement with Sylvia, Robert. Congrats to you , me and EVERYONE here who's goal has been reached. Thanks, BETH !!

Robert Rosenbaum

I'm in SoCal for the holidays visiting family. Yesterday was a travel day, but I'm hoping to use the quiet time, away from all the homestead tumult and between festivities to make a big push to the end of the month on my script.

Beth Fox Heisinger

Sounds great, Robert! That's my hope as well this Thanksgiving weekend. :)

Sylvia Marie Llewellyn

Since this thread has to be the longest ever lol and we've spent weeks together ... I'd like to take this time to wish you all the best Thanksgiving ever to you and yours... if you live in the U.S. that is. Happy Thanksgiving everyone!!! I'm in Canada, we had ours in October. But I lived in the States for five years, so I'm totally aware how big the celebration with friends and family is. The best ever. Safe travels everyone. :-))

Landon J. Morrell

Just typed Fade Out. Now to print and let it stew for a couple of weeks before the rewrites begin. On to the next one.

Steven Michael

I probably won't get the draft completed this month. Total re-write, reducing the number of characters, etc. The story is solid in my head (and notes), but the details need more work. This is good though, because it will sharpen the theme and heighten the tension. Time and attention are at a premium for me. I know writers should write every day, but sometimes there's just no motivation (boo-hoo right?).

Robert Rosenbaum

Congrats Landon. Celebrate! You've earned it!

Nancy Newbauer

Almost the end of the month. And just have to say I truly feel inspired by all of you. Through sickness, weather ... a move to another country - there is that dedicated (or stubborn) determination to keep writing. You are all awesome! A big thank-you Beth for initiating this collective support group. For me, I don't believe I will get the second draft done on my coming-of-age script. But that's alright, I have gotten far enough along that I now feel its rhythm and should finish before the first of the year. Hoping for a snowy winter ... light a few candles, big mug of hot chocolate ... and just enjoy the process. Again, it has been wonderful to be a part of this. And to my fellow turkey eaters - have a very Happy Thanksgiving!!

Erica Benedikty

When you relized it's almost the end of "November Write Club"

Beth Fox Heisinger

Yup, that picture captures my feelings exactly, Erica! Lol! Once again I lost internet connection and power yesterday due to wind storms. Now I'm playing catch up. Argh! What a week!

Tony Ginn

Looks like it is clear sailing for the HAWKS game and clear through the end of the week. The skiers must be chasing Turkey's in the Snow! Enjoy your Thanksgiving with your loved ones. Gobble, Gobble, Gobble up that green bean salad and have a glass of wine, relax, watch a movie, stay off your computer once you have caught, take a breath and go the distance with us until the 11/30/15. Most of all HAVE SOME FUN TODAY! God Bless and Shalom

Marli J Monroe

Beth, I completely relate to your day yesterday...I got 'snowed in' at my niece's house! (My so-called day job is taking care of her 10 month old son, so I couldn't get out before the storm really kicked in.) I wasn't able to break away to write, but we were fortunate enough to have power, so I did manage to 'attend' RB's podcast and Joey's '30 Minutes' interview series. I'm hoping to write more on Friday...or should I say "I WILL write more on Friday"?!! That's the effect of the group talking! : ) In addition to the constant support, you have all inspired me to begin writing loglines for each of my outlines, so I'm going to see if I can manage to eek out a few before Sunday. Doubtful, but I want to give it a try. For those travelling for the weekend, safe journeys and have a good holiday!

Monique McGee

I'm only on page 29.... I'M NOT STRESSED AT ALL!!! <- she said right before she threw her laptop against a wall. I'm still going to try to crank it out by Sunday. The last 50 pages may be in Klingon but it will be on paper.

Debbie Croysdale

A lot of people here have been through the mill these last weeks, illness, personal tragedy, freaks of nature weather wise.......but we are all still rockin on. I've just read this quote from Edgar Allen Poe. "Through joy and through sorrow, I wrote. Through hunger and through thirst, I wrote. Through good report, and through ill report I wrote. Through sunshine and through moonshine, I wrote. What I wrote, it is unnecessary to say." I think we all have something deep inside us, as writers, that no matter what we are compelled to go on. I've had demons of my own this month, but the need to finish by end month, seemed to take charge.

Jorge J Prieto

Beautifully said , DEBBIE, thank you, girlfriend. I would like to add this to everyone who is still on their journey since November 1. Making movies can be a challenging. Once you get an idea of where you are and where you want to go, you can begin to take steps in your desired direction... I, personally, need to know my tentative ending, it makes a difference where my characters are going based on their actions and for every action there's always a reaction. Just sharing a little insight into my process as we are ALL here to learn and encourage one another in the spirit of this our website. Happy Thanksgiving to ALL who celebrate this day of gratitude , for me I'm GRATEFUL to GOD everyday for the good and the bad, which keeps me HUMBLE and grounded. God bless you all and your love ones and call someone today and tell them you are grateful for them. I'm grateful for ALL of you here and I gotta say I'VE found many giving and kind artists here, who have helped me a great deal, you know who you are, so thank YOU and thanks RB for your GIFT to this community, which is ALl possible because of your VISION and PASSION. Cheers!!

Wendy Joseph

Jorge and Debbie, Absolutely and amen. Need to kick my butt in gear after a long bout with my demons. Gotta get back to those 1st 30 pages. Happy Thanksgiving to all.

Dan Guardino

November is almost over but I do have a page one rewrite I need to have finished and ready to go by the end of December. .

Erica Benedikty

So I think this is the first time this topic fell off the front page since November. I'm guessing everyone is really busy frantically writing the last few pages of their script or they are too stuffed from turkey and can't move. Remember, Dream big.

Beth Fox Heisinger

Oh yeah, I've been extremely busy—juggling the holiday weekend and trying to make a last dig effort. Hopefully everyone else is doing well these last few days! I gotta say, I'm very excited for this Sunday's blog post. I can't wait to announce the "kudos" for my 30-Day Clubbers! ;)

Marli J Monroe

One of my favorite pictures, Erica...Much needed inspiration for this final drive! Thanks!! In order to clear the 'brain fog' from yesterday, I decided to write loglines for other projects that I have sitting around. I wrote four of them earlier, so the morning fog has lifted, but now the afternoon fog is rolling in. YIKES! Happy Friday, everyone!

Monique McGee

Its the bottom of the 9th, bases are loaded and I'm sitting at 70 pages. I think I'll make it! I hope you guys are almost there too!

Anthony Cawood

75 pages, gonna be tight but think I'll be over the line with me first draft.

Beth Fox Heisinger

Wow, you guys are doing great! I wish I could say the same, but sadly no—my progress has been a bit slower. However, I am making progress! And that I do feel good about! ;)

Sylvia Marie Llewellyn

Congratulations to every single one of you. The first couple of weeks I was quite happy with my results... the last 2 not so much. Focusing on getting my business and house organized before I leave tomorrow morning for the Residency Program in the Bahamas. All the best to you all. XOXO

Beth Fox Heisinger

Bahamas?! NICE! Sounds fantastic, Sylvia! So what's the Residency Program?

Sylvia Marie Llewellyn

Hi Beth. It's a 4 day intensive with folks from L.A. Only 12 writers invited. The Mentors are... a Producer from Games of Thrones, the VP of Development & Acquisition from the Weinstein Co... Managers and others... all from L.A. I placed in the contest and they invited everyone to write an essay about why you should be chosen... The Mentors decide yay or nay.... so I did... and then that amazing email arrived a few weeks later inviting me. So it seems to me that...that was the deciding factor. The mentors chose. The only Film Festival I've ever attended (for many years) is here at the Toronto International Film Festival. (TIFF) because I live here. This is the Bahamas 12th year. They're very organized. Almost every other day BIFF sends updates on the festival. They promise a star-studded Opening. A-Listers attend apparently.... even Johnny Depp. But then he has his own island somewhere in the Bahamas. They sent an itinerary... we will have a one-on-one for 4 days. 1 1/2 hours every morning and afternoon... In between we have Panel discussions, seminars... lunches, dinners. cocktail parties... the usual at festivals... and of course Movies... etc. Getting there is an adventure in itself. We fly to Nassau, then take a 25 min. flight on an island-hopper plane called PineappleAir to North Eleuthera... this island is only 1/2 mile wide... can't believe they have an airport... then a water taxi to Harbour Island where we all meet. The festival goes from Dec 1-12 on 3 different islands. Crazy. I'll keep you posted. Hope WiFi works... and again... HEY YOU ALL... I've really enjoyed reading all your updates... You're the best... keep it going. A huge THANK YOU to you Beth. This has been a huge undertaking and you've been there for everyone every minute of the day and night all month long. XOXOXO Best always, -Sylvia

Sylvia Marie Llewellyn

HEY KASS....OMG... I'm so proud of you. 2 first drafts in a month??? Boy, are you ever on a roll. Good for you. Now the fun part begins... rewrites. The hardest part is done. Love you girl. So happy for you. Talk to you soon.

Tony Ginn

You are very blessed to be recognized by your Mentors. Your hard work has just begun! You will be a great team member! Don't forget to HAVE SOME FUN! For me that is what life is all about! YOLO!

Beth Fox Heisinger

Congratulations, Sylvia! Wow! I'd say the mentors chose wisely by choosing you. :) Can't wait to hear about your wonderful experience when you return. Have a great time!

Marli J Monroe

I'm so excited for you, Sylvia, and can't wait to hear all about it!! What an adventure!!

Erica Benedikty

Sounds like an exciting adventure Sylvia! Now for some reason I have Indianan Jones music going through my head. This sounds like the makings of a movie adventure in itself. Best wishes,

Beth Fox Heisinger

That's great progress, Fiona! I too had to make adjustments, but I'm very happy with where I am at the end of November heading into next month. :) Can you believe it?! It's the end of November already!

Jorge J Prieto

A BIG congrats to everyone. I believe success is only measure in the eyes of the beholder. So, WE ALL met our goal one way or another, which is what our BETH said at the start of this 30 day journey, this was a competition. Cheers everyone, I learned a lot from all of you and made new fabulous connections in way as well as got the chance to connect with old ones, like BETH Boomer. Fiona, Dame Elizabeth, Debbie, the twins , just to name a few. Cheers everyone!!

Evelien And Dorien Twins

With everything we'd had on our (unexpected) plate in November, ranging from a sudden move between countries, a SYFY pitch to prepare, a small disaster happening with one of our other projects and other obligations, we think we'll hit the 75 page mark and thus not finish the complete screenplay. HOWEVER, we do feel like we've accomplished a lot just because we've been so busy and have still managed to get that much on paper. We're probably looking at finishing the screenplay in January, seeing as we'll use most of december to get settled into the UK but we're still plugging ourselves with a little "PROUD' stamp :) We're sure Chuck would be proud, too.

Beth Fox Heisinger

Chuck Norris approved! Haha! Love it!

Tony Ginn

I am a SYFY writer, as well. Uploaded the " Void Trilogy Episode 1 " to the Share site! Now, getting ready for an interview on KLAY Radio in Tacoma, WA to discuss the selling of NPR - KPLU 88.5 to KOUW the University of Washington radio station and a second topic to discuss www.keepfilminwa.com to raise the Producer Incentive Program from $3.5M to $10M. Soon, back in the Studio at NW Green Records ( Home of the Ventures - Rock and Roll Hall of Famer's ) and a meeting with Steven Segal! Perhaps he is the Producer I have been seeking to accept one of my projects! Pray for my Success. Thank you and God Bless You and Yours during this Holiday Season. YOLO!

Beth Fox Heisinger

Okay, dear November 30-Day Write Club, the final Check-in blog is up! Please comment and let us know about your experience and your accomplishments this month. And please do tell us what's next for you! https://www.stage32.com/blog/Stage-32-November-30-Day-Write-Club-The-Fin...

Anthony Cawood

By my reckoning I've got rest of today and tomorrow to finish up the last few pages ;-)

Evelien And Dorien Twins

Done, dit Beth! :)

Beth Fox Heisinger

Oh, I can't wait for the "gift" to appear in your emails this week! I'm so excited!!! ...I would tell, but I must remain mum about it! Let's just say for all you fabulous participants who hung in there all month long, you're gonna love it! Much love and big thanks to the great folks of Stage 32! xxoo

Anthony Cawood

What, there's a gift? The support was fantastic, and more than enough... but you know what they say about gift horses!

Beth Fox Heisinger

Take a look a the last blog, Anthony. ;) And yes, you do have until the 30th! Lol!

David Levy

Support through the month helped me do something each day, even if I couldn't write. Half a sitcom and two short scripts completed, new conecpts joyyed down, and story lines being plotted. Not a bad month I'd say. Keeping up with everyone elses hustle during the marathon made sure I kept pace.

Tony Ginn

My Hebrew Brother! Keeping up with me is like chasing a freight train at 675 miles per hour! My Baby Steps are Leaps! What's in your head is what counts when you write it down. Shalom...............YOLO!

Monique McGee

Let me tell you. I would have never gotten to my goal without the inspirational posts and support from this thread. I tried to quit quite a few times and then I would read the blog or come on here and jump right back on the horse. Soooooo we're doing another one next month right? Asking for a friend.

David Levy

@Monique: It's war and you never leave a soldier behind! If one of us needs to carry you to the next page then so be it.

Monique McGee

@David Well said and thank you!

Robert Rosenbaum

This last week I have been on holiday at a family Thanksgiving as well as a family wedding. I have fallen behind a bit, but as Anthony said - it's not Nov. 30 yet! (Howland Island time gives an extra four hours from the Pacific coast!) The family festivities are now over, but I will remain in SoCal till the 2nd and intend to use the time away from the home fires to put in some serious butt-to-chair time. How ever far I get, this has been a great experience and has helped both my screenwriting and communication skills! Thanks all, thanks Beth. See you at the finish.

Evelien And Dorien Twins

Beth, we hope you don't mind us doing this. In order to keep the momentum going after the November Write challenge, we've opened a group called "Right here, Write now" available for those on Facebook. https://www.facebook.com/groups/558781934276434/ It's for people who have ideas for writing challenges to discuss, people who need that extra kick to get started (or finish) kind of a continuation of this here thread :) You know... a "get me out of my jam, I'm in a pickle" sort of group

Tony Ginn

Beth, you being the Lead Goose in the formation have created opportunities for others to follow your lead. You truly BROKE A LEG on this one. Now drop back in the formation and coast with the draft and let the twins keep going to their destination with us following their lead. Networking? I would suggest for a meet up in your vicinity or start one and create a collaboration with your colleagues. HAVE SOME FUN TODAY! Isaiah 40:31 YOLO! Heading to Facebook!

Shari D. Frost

Sylvia -- have a great trip! Looking forward to hearing all about it! Beth -- I'm feeling your pain, & sharing your success. I didn't get quite as far as I hoped, but I'm pretty excited about what I did accomplish. Kass-- TWO screenplays?! You go girl! Everyone -- thx for sharing your Write Club adventures and keeping me super motivated! Who says writing is lonely work? Not around here. I'm pumped for one last marathon day of writing. (And then for kicking off another productive month!)

Erica Benedikty

Wait, a gift. Maybe I should change the title of my script from "Nothing for Christmas".

Dan Guardino

I am working on a rewrite on a production script and trying to produce a couple of films. In this business you climb one hill just to discover there are more hills to climb.

Beth Fox Heisinger

Well done and well said, Boomer. ;)

Elaine Haygood

Twins, just sent a request to join your group on Facebook. Beth, GIRLIE! You moved mountains this month! Honestly, you need to teach, coach or something because you kept this all together while working on your own stuff and just dealing with life in general-did I say you ROCK, yet?

Beth Fox Heisinger

That you did, Elaine. Thanks, girl! You rock too! :)

Sylvia Marie Llewellyn

Hi All... I'm writing from Harbour Island in the Bahamas... Arrived yesterday. Meet & Greet today at 5 pm. YES!!!WiFi works... so to all on this thread... congratulations and kudos...YOU ALL ROCK... whether you wrote a little or a lot, you WROTE... like Beth, our leader said, this is not a competition. Really enjoyed all your updates and the excitement in your voices... Happy writing. XOXOXO

Monique McGee

So when we say midnight tonight, we are talking Hawaii-Aleutian Standard Time right? Because that would give east-coasters like a solid extra 5 hours to get er done. Totally asking for a friend.

Robert Rosenbaum

Howland Island, Monique… EST +7! (Plus it's uninhabited so you can really get some work done. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Howland_and_Baker_islands)

Monique McGee

Robert, you are a CHAMPION! Thanks for the extra 2 hours.

Vince Conside

Hey everyone, I hope everyone enjoyed the holiday (long weekend) completed my step outline and 15 pages of my script

Beth Fox Heisinger

I can't believe November 30th is upon us! Congratulations everyone! We made it! Pat yourselves on the back, share a virtual hug, take a break and celebrate. CHEERS everybody! Well done! ....Now, onward!

Tony Ginn

I LOVE Women! I was raised by a single Mom and understand your struggles to raise up children to always remember where they came from. For the exception of a few men commenting on this thread, I have been communicated with the most intelligent, creative, competitive, talented visionaries, and future women in film, that I can't get enough of! Keep charging ahead my colleagues and break the glass ceiling and change our World. Matthew 28:19,20 CHEERS!

Debbie Croysdale

I finished the script I started, by the designated deadline.....but I did not celebrate yesterday. Why? I'm going to miss this thread. Dang the script......it's the people that count! People who helped me up the mountain, don't disappear now I've climbed it! Best to you ALL!

Beth Fox Heisinger

Debbie, we're always around and here for you. Just keep climbing. ;)

Debbie Croysdale

Many Thanks Beth. Nice to know a lovely Lady cares.

Evelien And Dorien Twins

COMMENTATOR (bis): GOOOOOODDDDD MOORNING 30 days of Write participants! (if this sounds familiar, it's because that's how we started November 1st too) So, December has fallen upon us (once again) and what a month November has been! We've all strived and struggled with a couple of "ooh's" and "aah's along the way. Possibly some wanted to throw their paperwork or laptop against the walls at some point but we're all there. Some may not have reached their goals but you reached A goal, it's the end of November and you're still writing! What are some of the things you've found most rewarding or have found yourself struggeling with the most? Keep going and congrats, everyone!

Beth Fox Heisinger

That's a wrap! :) Well... just the end of November. Haha! Love it, Twins! :-)

Beth Fox Heisinger

What I found most rewarding was all of you! The camaraderie and knowing each of you were making progress and feeling great about your own work and your accomplishments. Best. Thing. Ever. ;)

Jorge J Prieto

These is what I found most rewarding, knowing that we are ALL ONE in the same journey, story tellers UNITED by one common denominator, to reach and the heart and soul of our audience and entertain, teach, create consciousness and in some small way be architects of a better world one story at a time. Let's stay connected in the spirit of this website, as RB, would say Merry Christmas, happy Holidays my fellow, Happy Writers.

Jorge J Prieto

Thanks, Fiona, you are kind lady.

Marli J Monroe

Ok, so it's December 1st... Anyone else going through separation anxiety right about now?!? : ) It was a pleasure spending time with all of you in November!

Jorge J Prieto

Thanks, Marli. I share your sentiments. Question, have anyone here posted their LOGLINE, from the November writing .challenge? I put mine up, weeks ago. Anyone???

Tony Ginn

Jorge.....You've opened a door for me as I have uploaded to the share site, The ' Void Trilogy-Episode 1 ' ( SYFY ), The Buffalo Soldiers Story " Medal of Honor ", The Robert Johnson Story " Man with the Blues ", " Pursuit " ( TV Pilot ), " Summer Camp " ( Indie ), " Hilltop Buster's ( Indie ), and my Grandfather Joe Jordan's Story " They All Played Ragtime ". Now it is the pitching stage for me. One of them will stick! Beginning to write a Horror Story " IDI the Demonic Zombie ". My Autobiography is written moment by moment. Still writing and always Producing. Everyone of you very Talented Artists make the most of what you have been gifted with, stay comfortable in your own skin and be the most productive human being one can be while alive on this Earth. YOLO! ( You Only Live Once ). Happy Holidays, Shalom and by all means HAVE SOME FUN TODAY! Isaiah 40:31

Robert Rosenbaum

Hi Jorge. I have two loglines up. One, "The Manny" is the script I am currently pitching. The other, "Schrödinger's Ticket" is the script I am working on from the November Write Club. I would be happy hear yours or anyone's opinions. I made a comment on your logline for "The Secret Dancer."

Monique McGee

Good idea, Jorge! I'll put mine up now.

Tony Ginn

Monique. Tony here. Checked out your profile and sent you a message! Hope it helps. Is the Boys and Girl's Club Offices still on Peachtree? Remember Denzel is the Spokesman. Now that we are in the Holiday Season, I encourage all of you on this thread to give a gift to the Charity of your choosing and give back to the community that feeds you. Or, a person that you pass by on the street that is less fortunate than we are! Merry Christmas and take time to Pray. Shalom

Monique McGee

Hi Tony! I'll check it out now. I believe the Boys and Girls club headquarters is still on Peachtree. In fact, its directly across the street from where I used to work.

Erica Benedikty

I'll post mine later today, right now I have to get ready for work. Uggg, I not an early morning riser. 5:30 am is just not right.

Kenneth W. Wood

William Martell: Congrats on the release of your new book. Kathryn Rushent: Two complete scripts in one month. That's amazing. You two and everyone here inspire me. Even though we are all working on different projects, it feels like we are a part of the same team. I am standing at 48 pages on my soon to be 110 page SyFy. I am making a little progress every day in writing, researching and learning the craft. Didn't finish that script in November? I pledge to finish mine by Dec. 31 or sooner and challenge you all to do the same.

David Levy

Kenneth: Considering I have about 20 pages left to write in my script by the end of the month I will take that challenge. This is a marathon, not a sprint. If it takes you extra time to finish, just finish! William: Aersome job!! I finished two TV pilot rewrites a few weeks ago. They are up in my LOGLINES section if anyone wants to check them out. I can't post the shorts I did for TMI , but I can send it out if anyone wants a laugh! Hero At Large - An ex Green Beret hunts his former CO turned drug lord who murdered his unit, while battling drug addiction, divorce and wrestling with his conscience over being the lone survivor. Project: Hero - A bullied college freshman struggles with confidence and new super powers amid guidance from his sarcastic, comic book fanboy cousin as they uncover his origins and self esteem to deal with life, villains, and roadblocks they thought only existed in comic books. So mich time and so little to write. Strike that, reverse it.

Jorge J Prieto

You can count me, my dear Kate and everyone here. Enjoy your holidays everyone.

Mark Gunnion

On November 1, I started my first draft on my fourth screenplay, THE SWORD AND THE SERPENT. On November 30, at 10:00 p.m. I typed FADE OUT. Yay! Yesterday I did my first main revision and rewrite, and I'm very happy now with the result. It's an Adventure/Fantasy. Logline: When a peaceful Scottish fishing village is raided by a band of bloodthirsty Vikings, a young brother and sister - and their grandmother - must evade capture and convince a fabled "Gatekeeper" to open the South Gate and release the fearsome reptilian guardian of the Loch - a Loch later to be known as "Ness". I got a WGA registry last night, so if anybody would like to trade a read, let me know!

Christopher Joseph

Whassssup guys! Better late than never, I did not abandon ye! LOL I wrapped up my short script entitled 'The Pimp is IN' for The Jameson First Shot probably on Dec 1st and I've been tweaking and playing with it ever since. I do believe I have come to a comfortable version I would submit. Trust, I'm my own worst enemy so this type of group participation is beneficial to get things accomplished! I will post a copy here once I submit and get that finalized. I was also tweaking a short called 'Blur Frathouse Massacre' and hoping a small team of us can make the film happen in the spring! AND editing Part II of my novel Road Kill Crossroads for publication, Part I is available now. So really busy! Oh, had a setback as my Macbook was in the shop so was using an ugly borrowed PC laptop that was just depressing. So got the Mac back and reopened my Adobe Story account to make sure everything is tweaked just right. Now just have to fight my 16 year old off of it because she is learning Adobe Illustrator and doing very very well with it so I don't mind as much lol. Glad to see everyone has seen some success this past month!

Erica Benedikty

For your Holiday enjoyment, I bring you "Nothing For Christmas" Better late then never, so I've finally had a chance to make a few more revisions and corrections to my November challenge script. I have posted the logline and script on my logline page if you wish to check it out. Thank you all for your support last month and enjoy a little Christmas story.

Beth Fox Heisinger

Great, Erica! I'll take a look at your script as soon as I can. :)

Beth Fox Heisinger

Happy Holidays Write Club! So, how are you all doing on your November projects? What further progress have you made and do you have goals for the end of the year? I've been refining my outline/story, but my progress has come to a screeching halt due to fast approaching holiday craziness. However, I'll pick it right back up soon after. I have my eye on February for a finished script. And you?

David Levy

Happy Holidays Beth and everyone! I finished my sitcom and letting it sit. I am putting together a treatment and story outline for my next sitcom "Story Of My Life" loosely based on my life and stand up comedy material I've written! I should have this done before the end of January.

Sylvia Marie Llewellyn

Happy Holidays!!! I wish you all a healthy, wealthy and prosperous year in 2016. Thank you Beth for inspiring us all to live our dream and doing the work.

Erica Benedikty

Merry Christmas all! For me, I've sent my script of to someone to proof read now. I will make some final changes and corrections when I hear back. As the Holidays are here, I'm just enjoying my vacation, do a little planning on another project but mostly just watching Christmas movies and doing a lot of nothing. A break every now and again is good. It helps recharge the creative juices. Oh and of course I will be seeing STAR WARS TONIGHT!!!!!

Robert Rosenbaum

Hello Beth and everyone, great to see your smiling posts! I am back working on the script I wrote for the November project after a brief break to pitch my latest finish script. I did three pitches over the weekend and so far received script request from two of the three. Now let's just hope my material is as good as my pitch! LOL. I am determined now to have a clean draft of the new script by end of year. I think about you guys and it inspires my goals. Happy Festivus everyone. I will make a donation to the Human Fund in all your names! Peace

Christopher Joseph

What's good everyone! Happy Holidays to all and hopefully gives you time to get some more writing done! Seeking any feedback for my Jameson First Shot submission - it's now posted and ready on my page so feel free to give me some creative feedback!!! Appreciate Y'all! Thanks Beth!~ https://www.stage32.com/profile/42719/Screenplay/The-Pimp-is-IN

Nancy Newbauer

Wonderful news, Robert! Best of luck with your script and the exes ... and with the new project! Would love to read it when you're done.

Elaine Haygood

Happy Holidays to all! I've had to put things aside for the moment-Personal things which, will be settled tomorrow and then The Force Awakens on Sunday with my sons. In the meantime, I've been learning new paint software and working on some of the panels for the graphic novel as well as I've taken up the habit of doing those adult coloring book pages. A friend provided a link to about 20 of them on Facebook and I've gotten 2 completed so far-I must say, when you need to clear your head of all the noise, these things can prove most useful. Anyhoo, will probably not be posting again until after the New Year. Peace to all, E :0)

Wendy Joseph

Adult coloring books?

Tony Ginn

Is this the only major focus? Perhaps, your market would be Seniors in retirement communities. Coloring would be a good exercise for brain stimulation. Especially for the ages 75 to 100 that may have predimentsia. I know there are studies that have addressed this condition. God Bless!

Anthony Cawood

Wendy, Adult refers to the peope who are expected to colour it in... not the type of content in the book... http://www.bookdepository.com/adult-colouring-books

Anthony Cawood

And Happy Holidays to all... my plan for a quiet Xmas on the writing front has gone sideways due to a feature script comp with a deadline of 31st Jan... Write Club was good practice ;-) Also had the pleasure of seeing Star Wars on a massive IMAX screen last night... amazing!

Regina Partee

Happy Holidays, All! In November, I set out to finish several scripts for my Web Series. However, I got pulled away onto a TV Pilot script. I did finish it. Now I'm working up rewrites and starting back up with the Web Series Script. I hope to have at least one done by December 31st.

Elaine Haygood

Sorry about the confusion Wendy. And, to the gentleman who made the remarks about the aged: I actually know no end of people these days who are utilizing the Mandala and other books-It's actually become quite the trend these days.

Steven Michael

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all! To respond to Beth's post about status: I have revamped the story; in fact I probably started with two scripts but tried to cram it all into one. So three steps back to go a step forward. The final screenplay should be ready by end of January. Then it's on to my sports/historical project. Very appreciated to all.

Monique McGee

My update: I'm planning to be finished with my rewrite by Christmas. I'm hoping to have it ready for the S32 Comedy Writing Contest so I'll be writing, polishing, rinsing and repeating until the deadline.

Christopher Joseph

DId an update on my page my short script! Love to hear your feedback! Check me out!

William Martell

I think it's time to start planning our writing for the new year... unless you are Chinese, then you can put that off until February 8th.

Tony Ginn

Speaking of Chinese.......go to www.alibaba.com as they are funding projects. Merry Xmas!

Christopher Joseph

Oliver White - Yes, check out 'The pimp is in" put the latest update on it last night :)

Kenneth W. Wood

As a participant in the November Write Club, now that it's January 14, 2016, I thought I would check in after a month-and-a-half of silence. I have been silent, but not still. I have been writing. I just broke page 100. I jumped ahead and completed the final scenes. Now, I'm backing up and plugging in a few more puzzle pieces in the climax of the story. I should be done with the first draft by January 31 or sooner.

Sylvia Marie Llewellyn

Congratulations Ken!!!

Regina Partee

I'm finally giving an update as well. I finished the rewrite on the television pilot. It's now awaiting final script approval from the producer. We'll see where it goes from there. Fingers crossed.

Jorge J Prieto

Congrats, KEN and REGINA. You did it. Hope to see your loglines on your profile soon, if you will. This is the thread that never dies. We broke record here.

Debbie Croysdale

Wow! Been touring Scandinavia since thread ended, so not used much Internet......just tapped in now......what a joy to see all you guys and gals still here in 2016. November was the "Acorn" of the thread, let the "Oak" never die. Congrats to all recent successes to all who strived here! Incidentally I won a prize I've only just found out about stemming from my input here. Been offered free Skype US seminar from this thread. This will be a gem I will not misuse. Apologise if any spell mistakes here, but I have frostbite.

Kenneth W. Wood

One scene to go and I am finished with my November Write Club screenplay. Hoping to finish tomorrow.

Kenneth W. Wood

Beth and Everyone: Done. Finito. The first draft of my November Write Club project is finished. It came in at 115 pages. After I get it polished, I will do a reveal here first on STAGE32. Whew, that was intense! I think I'll take a break and write an action/thriller.

Beth Fox Heisinger

That's great news, Kenneth! Good for you! So, you'll post it on your profile page? I look forward to seeing it. Me, I'm still working away. I hope everyone else is doing well. :)

Tony Ginn

As always, this network is awesome. Just wanted to give you an update on our efforts to increase the funding for www.keepfilminwa.com at the State Capitol yesterday, also, the acquisition of KPLU by KOUW. www.kplu.org. I have had two interviews regarding both subjects on www.klay1180.com. The WFW bill HB 2542 has been presented to the House with bipartisan support and we are now in a position for KPLU to raise $7M to be an independent station and maintain the Public Trust. The deadline is June 30. Many times the political process affects our industry and I am an advocate for change. Just part of the business of what we have to do for success. YOLO!

Leotien Parlevliet

I´m still working on the rewrite of Journey For Heaven, to remove Camera directions and superfluous dialogues I must admit that my action in between to help to put an end to the gruesome dolphin hunt in Japan proves to be very creative for my writing; I get new ideas, better dialogue

Kenneth W. Wood

Great Leotien. I'm sending you my encouragement to Write Boldly!

Leotien Parlevliet

Thanks Kenneth, I look forward to read the first draft of your project when you´ve put it on your profile page.

Robert Rosenbaum

I've been falling back into "bad" habits again. While I am trying to at least work on the promotion and sale of my last finished screenplay every day, I have not been writing every day. And now I am floundering between several unfinished scripts, reading them, thinking about where to go next, which one to work on, or should I start something new all together. In the interim words are not attaching themselves to pages. This is definitely a pattern, a GPS map of how I got here. "Recalculating..."

Beth Fox Heisinger

Sorry to hear that, Robert. Yeah, I've been doing the same thing, floundering a bit, but I'm getting back on track. You will too. :)

Elaine Haygood

Robert, reading your post, I'm reminded of something Harlan Ellison once said: I'm writing even when I'm on the toilet", (Yeah, I'm sure I paraphrased that). You said that you've been looking at several projects, trying to work out whether to work on one of them or something new. Maybe, that's what you need to focus on and not worry about putting words on paper simply for the sake of doing so. I've found that when I'm just "putting words on paper", that's all I get. Words on paper. They're just taking up space and don't resonate with anything. No matter what you decide to do in the next few days, don't beat yourself up. shaming one's self doesn't accomplish anything, and the more shame you heap on your head, the more weighed down you get until you find yourself just standing there. Best of luck, let us know what you decided. E :0)

Bill Costantini

I'm like Robert, too. I write war stories. I've started more wars than Napoleon. Seriously...sometimes you just have to go back to the drawing board. I like having a wall board - it's like 2.5 feet by 4 foot. I have to see the whole thing in front of me, scene by scene. It's the best aid for me to flesh out my story, and to keep me writing on point. Good luck, everybody.

Anthony Cawood

I finished my thriller, Suffer the Children, thanks to the NWC... it also gave me the confidence to write a script in 6 weeks for the Land of Illusion competition advertised on here (submitted yesterday), so thanks Beth and everyone for the support and encouragement along the way... Was planning on having a quiet Feb... but this morning I had a geat idea about an Elizabethan Action/Spy movie ;-)

Robert Rosenbaum

Thank you Beth, Elaine and Bill for your words of encouragement. And to everyone here for sharing your journey. I'm not sure where mine is leading me now, but I will keep you informed!

Christopher Joseph

Anthony - That Land of Illusion contest is due today the 31st of Jan unless there's been some type of extension I'm unaware of! I just found out about it the 18th and have been slaying away trying to piece something together for it within a week! With so many other distractions this has been a daunting task. If I can make it to the minimum amount of pages tonight of 70 I will submit whatever I have!! Might not be my best work lol. Smh, my fingers are tired...

Anthony Cawood

Hi Christopher... yep today is the deadline, I kept tinkering with mine so got it in slightly early before I over tweaked it ;-) Good luck with getting it in by midnight (EST)

Jorge J Prieto

You can do it, Boomer. Congrats, to ALL, who reached the finish line. Let's all give a big thanks to our leader, moderator, BETH.

Kenneth W. Wood

Hi Beth and all November Write Clubbies. Here is the link to GENETIC MEMORY, the screenplay I started in November. https://www.stage32.com/profile/489530/Screenplay/Genetic-memory

Elaine Haygood

Did my first pitch in AGES-Okay, it was a written pitch-the guy I was to pitch to got ill. And, while I wait to hear one way or the other, I'm putting the script I pitched (N0, not the Werewolf, one) into Celtix and then back to the Werewolf script.

Jorge J Prieto

Best of luck on your pitch, Elaine. Keep writing - Hope never quits.

Kenneth W. Wood

@Elaine - All the best.

Christopher Joseph

Drat, received my reject letter from Jameson already! Boo! I had put my foot into it. Wendy, did you or anybody else make it to the next round? I may try to make it myself...

Elaine Haygood

Christopher. So sorry about the rejection. Think of it this way: that just leaves the door open for the right producer to pick up your script. Anyhoo, still waiting to hear-With the guy ill, might not know until sometime next month-Which, seeing as I have a house full of people sick with the flu to manage, may not be such a bad thing.

Anthony Cawood

I had the dreaded rejection too Christopher, but hey it means my script is avaiable for some other lucky film maker ;-) The Girl in the Fence - An anomaly in an online photo opens a schism between a childless couple, it may be resolved, but only if she can understand what the photo reveals. https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/35583122/The%20Girl%20in%20the%20Fen...

Robert Rosenbaum

While I still struggle with my November Write Club "assignment," I have received more good news on the screenplay I am currently pitching. "The Manny." which had placed in the semifinals of the Table Read My Screenplay (Park City) competition has just now placed in the quarter-finals of The BlueCat Screenplay Competition. I have also entered it in Stage 32 Happy Writers Annual Comedy Writing Contest. "The Manny" is listed here under my loglines. I would love to hear any comments by my piers here at S32 if anyone wishes to have a look.

Jorge J Prieto

Congrats, ROBERT, my man! Best of luck with a REALLY original story: The Manny. Make us proud, brother.

Hans Nielsen

Your typo is very funny (piers for peers) Have you been down to the harbor lately?

Christopher Joseph

We doing this again this year Beth?

Beth Fox Heisinger

November 2017.... Hold on. We'll see! ;-))))

Sarah Gabrielle Baron

Oh god, I need this. Please do this, Beth. I haven't written anything since 2015. I didn't look for work this fall so I could focus on writing. I need to get back to you guys, this environment, and my self.

Doug Nelson

Yeah, I guess it about time I finish my Oscar-bait.

Brandon Phillips

Count me in for a feature! I'll make it an unconventional love story.

Elisabeth Meier

Beth Fox Heisinger I will be in again and am looking forward to this November, but what I wish for is to open a new thread for November 2017 as this here definitely is too long.

Christopher Joseph

Lol looks like the team is on it! :) This thread is quite long though!

Julia Dibbern

I'd like to give this a shot. In November I should (=MUST) be done with both of the books I have deadlines for, so ... time to PLAY!

Beth Fox Heisinger

Haha! You think this 2015 thread is long... last year's (2016) was around 775 or so—which is fantastic! ;) So again: Please hold on. For 2017, a new post and thread would be started. ;)

Elisabeth Meier

LOL, Beth. I know I know, have been in both years. :) New post and thread sounds great. Thanks! <3

Beth Fox Heisinger

Elisabeth, sure. Always great to have people join in year after year. ;) Just informing those who are perhaps new and may not have participated before. It's all good! :)))

Bill Costantini

Beth: is it true that this year's November Write Club Swag Bag is going to be even bigger and better than last year's? How can you top last year's free I-Phone; Final Draft 10; a year-long supply of Starbucks Latte Machiatto; and the big bash at RB's summer home on the French Riviera? Heh-heh.

Elisabeth Meier

Bill - what about $ 1.000.000?

Beth Fox Heisinger

Ah, yes, well this year RB's summer home soiree will feature a backyard performance by the Monte-Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra. And I'm told the international "who's who" of the film industry will attend. Evening attire is a must, and, of course, as with all events hosted by RB... it's open bar! ;) LOL! Yeah, right! If only!!! Bill, you crack me up!

Beth Fox Heisinger

Hi, Gilberto. Sounds great! ;) But again, please hold on. This thread is from two years ago. A new thread for 2017 will be posted near the first of November. So let's please let this thread from 2015 go quiet. Thank you! Love this enthusiasm! Much appreciated everyone!!! :)))

Christopher Joseph

I never saw a new post here it us thanksgiving

Mohanjeet

This November I started writing my second script, A dramedy.....comedy is something I have never written so I am very excited. 15 pages down already!

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