It's Introduce Yourself weekend here at Stage 32, so here I go...
I've been a member at Stage 32 since Feb. 2021 after taking a 27 year hiatus from writing, yes that's correct. Rather than beat myself up about that, or look at it negatively, I choose to honor and appreciate that time because I LIVED and EXPERIENCED life, and brought those things to my writing.
My first feature length script, "Garden of Eden", a comedy/drama, was optioned, then sold, and is now beginning production in CT, NYC, LA, and Romania through connections made right here on Stage 32. Uallywood Studios, and its partner, Odessa Film Studio, also optioned my second feature length script, "Two", a thriller drama.
I have opportunities to pitch other scripts to Mandalay Entertainment and I'm exploring the possibility of writing for a series of podcasts in the thriller genre. I also co-host the Thursday night Pitch Practice Tank with the amazingly talented and generous Brooklynn Fields right here on Stage 32 @5:30 pm PST, 8:30 pm EST. Writers Room members can join us and sign up for pitching their scripts and receiving helpful, honest notes on pitch structure and content to get those pitches ready for an executive to listen to, and we even break story with writers who have ideas for a script but need some guidance on organizing them.
I write this to let new members and existing ones know that patience and perseverance and diligent work on your projects does pay off. Look at the time off I overcame! Also, the Stage 32 community are the best in support and contributing to your journey. There are no better allies. Just take some time and find like-minded individuals working in the same space as you, and remember to give that support as much as you receive it. It does pay itself back.
My very best to you, my fellow writers! Keep creating and know that you are doing so in a safe, supportive environment.
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Oh wow. Nobody should beat themselves up for taking a hiatus. Life happens to all of us. But you absolutely MUST pat yourself on the back. You're killing it, man! Congratulations for inspiring me. :) Great to see you here.
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Thank you Debbie! Great to meet you as well, and I can't wait to hear and learn more about your successes too.
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Thank you so much for sharing John Mezes! So grateful you're part of this community!
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My pleasure Emily! Glad to support my fellow writers!
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Hey, John Mezes. Fantastic post and encouragement! You're right. The Stage 32 community is the most supportive community around. I've never seen a filmmaking/creative community like it! :D
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Thanks Maurice, and you're a BIG part of that! Your support and help for your fellow writer is appreciated and never forgotten. A true ally , my friend.
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You're welcome, John Mezes. And thanks! I really appreciate it, and I echo those words right back at you! :D Will there be a Pitch Practice this week?
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Thanks, Johnny! Incredible words of wisdom! Wow! What a journey! LIVE LIFE! EXPERIENCE! WRITE! Thanks so much for your continued support and guidance. : )
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Your welcome Bill! It's when the majority succeed, not the minority...that's what does it for me.
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The man, the myth. Happy holidays, my friend.
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Congratulations on Garden of Eden John! Why did you guys choose Romania to shoot? Wishing you a beautiful holiday season. We’re grateful to have you and your positive vibes in the community!
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Hi Amanda! Originally, part of the script took place in Ukraine, and the studio was filming there, but because of the horrific events in that country the film crew and their loved ones had to relocate for safety. The studio(s) involved in the project halted production and spent months helping get them out of the country. Many ended up in Romania and surrounding countries, and reunited to continue filming in Romania, which has a rich history quite similar to Ukraine and locations comparable to how the studio(s) want that portion of the film to look.
Happy holidays to you too. I'm grateful to have Stage 32 as an ally in my writing career.
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RB!!!!! Thank you my friend. From creation to daily execution regarding Stage 32, it's appreciated more than you know, and brings a smile to my face. Enjoy the holidays!
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Yes Maurice, there will be a pitch practice session this Thursday, Dec. 22nd. Thank you for the kind words as well. Happy holiday buddy.
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Thank you, John!
Thanks, John Mezes. I plan to be there! Happy holidays.
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Thanks for posting your success! I'm happy for you and so glad you've found success on here.
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Thank you Brimo! I appreciate the support, and wish the same for you and your endeavours too.