I've been tasked with writing a biography for a somewhat famous character who has been deemed fictitious by many people involved in the stealing of his identity for a film produced many years ago. I have interviewed many of the people who witnessed the events that were transformed from book to screenplay (and well known movie) that lead me to believe the biography would be well received. Being a screenwriter, I am not experienced nor comfortable writing this biography (partially because of format, partially because of personal involvement). However, I am currently trusted to do so. While I believe a documentary on this situation itself would be a ridiculously fun and entertaining side project that I would be more comfortable with, I am not sure how to follow through with the biography project. I guess I am looking for suggestions as to where to turn when you don't have the writing skills, but are embedded deep within a fantastic story. Do I attempt to write it? Do I hire a more experienced writer to get involved? And how do you determine that a story can translate to screen without bastardizing the material? Any feedback is more than welcome - I feel like I'm sitting on an important opportunity but I have no sense of how it should be handled. Due to the age of the individuals involved, time is also of the essence.
Screenwriting : Ghost Writing for a Screenwriter? by Christopher Henry
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I personally would write it as a film, if it's where the inspiration is leading, don't fight it. As long as it's done to meet quality, it will be loved.
Thanks, Andrew. I just may have to go down that path. :)
No problem! Keep us posted
contact me, Andrew. I would like to discuss this project with you. I am an experienced writer and I have a good grasp of how to approach this for both book and screenplay.
Dan - this person is asking me to do a book, but I'm discussing other options with him. Because we're friends at this point (and I've know his girlfriend since highschool), we have not discussed money - however he has so far flown me first class all over the US and Europe to meet and interview people and visit his "stomping grounds" for some history. I'd say he's already laid out about $40k to walk me through his experiences. As for being paid to write it (or film it) he's looking to me for what it would cost. New territory for me. Still trying to figure out a good starting point.
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Matthew - I'd be interested in talking to you about this project. Message me or email me and we'll talk. Thanks for the interest.
If you end up on the film option, I would love to do the score! Please feel free to message me about it when you have the time!
Thanks, Andrew. If and when I get to that point we'll definitely be in touch!
Awesome!