How to Make good writing great

2/7/2014

When Chelsea and I first started writing, we got a lot of frustrating notes.

Everybody that read our worked really liked it, but our writing didn't quite resonate enough for them to actually buy, produce or option our scripts.

Over and over, people would say things like..

"The writing was really strong, but sometimes it felt a little flat..."
OR
"It was a great read, but we didn't connect with the concept..."
OR
"You clearly know how to tell a story, but it just didn't stick with me..."

It was FRUSTRATING. We had read all the books and we had learned all the rules, but our writing just wasn't hitting as hard as we needed it to.

So we studied up...

We read every great script we could get our hands on and we studied them inside and out.

Here's what we discovered...

In great scripts, everything is connected. Every decision the writer makes is motivated. Everything speaks to theme, and no element of the story can exist without the others there to support it.

This was a huge revelation for us.

Before, when our screenplays didn't resonate with a Hollywood big wig, we would address problem areas one patch at a time. We'd change a set piece in the second act. Or add more comedy in the first ten pages, or punch up the dialogue.

But that's not what our scripts needed. Our scripts needed CONNECTIONS. We needed to understand how to unite character, conflict, theme and structure in service of the stories we were trying to tell. And that meant we had to re-think our entire approach to screenwriting.

We were brand new to writing, so we turned to the best writer and script analyst we knew for help... Craig Sabin.

Craig has written and ghost written for Disney, TNT and HBO. He options almost every script he writes, and he understands screenwriting in an almost savant-like way.

When we approached him about these connections, he was totally excited by the idea.

And that's when we realized we were on to something.

So Craig, Chelsea and I spent the better part of the next two years studying all of the important connections in screenwriting, and distilling that information down into a process that's easy to learn and understand.

This class is what came out of those discussions.

Helmed by Craig, this three hour course will teach how to tweak your writing so that your scripts will truly resonate with your readers. You will graduate with a new understanding of character, conflict, structure and theme. And your eyes will be opened to all the details you've been missing in your favorite movies and scripts. Guaranteed.

The class won't be some stuffy lecture, either. It will be collaborative and discussion based. Craig will work through a screenplay in real time to demonstrate course material in action, and students will have plenty of time to ask questions throughout.

Plus, it's going to be FUN.

But here's the most important part...

This class is for writers that know their way around the page. It's for writers whose work is good, but not amazing. Most of all, it's for writers who are tired of polite rejections, and who are finally ready to succeed.

We call the course DRIVE, because when you apply these principles to your scripts, your stories will move with more speed and confidence than you ever thought possible.

Since we started writing with DRIVE, Chelsea and I have attached great talent to our rom com feature, and we recently optioned a pilot, which we'll be taking out to networks and studios this summer.

Craig has optioned a number of his scripts, and has some great attachments lined up for his new comedy.

So get your screenwriting career moving, and sign up for DRIVE today.

The Details

What: "How to Make Good Writing Great: Understanding Connections In Screenwriting"

When: Saturday - March 8th, 2:30 - 5:30 PM

Where: Two Roads Theater
4348 Tujunga Ave.
Studio City, CA

How Much: $149

Instructor: Craig Sabin

Geno Scala link

2/7/2014 05:47:44 am

You MUST videotape and sell to us out-of-towners! I will be referring some locals to attend. Very cool!

Script Quack link

2/7/2014 05:59:20 am

Awesome! We're all really excited for the course. It should be a lot of fun. And we are definitely toying with the video idea down the line. Hope you're doing well, Geno!

Geno Scala

2/7/2014 06:14:23 am

You guys are the best - Thank you!

David Anderson

2/7/2014 08:15:43 am

I feel cheated. I opened this page to find out how to make my writing better. Instead, I get an ad asking me to sign up for a course which will cost me $149 I don't have. ScriptQuack, you've wasted my time. You can bet your ass I won't let you waste my money.

Geno link

2/7/2014 09:39:43 am

Dude, seriously? You feel cheated because you DIDN'T get something for FREE?

Sign up for "Obamacare"; you'll get all the free stuff you want, and a doctor could help you pull that stick out!

I'm pretty sure one 800- word blog entry isn't going to convert good writing into great writing, when four year college courses and thousand page books try to accomplish the same thing. But, here's the thing: this measly $150 investment in your career will pay you back a thousand-fold down the road.

But, be aware: they probably don't furnish pens.

Don't want you to feel cheated... ;)

Karen

3/18/2014 04:48:25 am

I think I understand where David is coming from. The truth is we're saturated with courses telling you how to get into the industry but none of them actually get you into the industry. It's a huge money spinner and difficult for somebody who hasn't the first clue as to how the industry works but desperately want to get in. I'm not criticising Script Quack but understand as someone like me who has signed up attended and paid for many script contests, workshops, masterclasses and courses all over promising and under delivering (if at all) to then be asked to pay for yet another course without a guarantee must be frustrating to say the least. So joke all you will be appreciate that for many of us writers struggling to make ends meet and to get a foot in the door and each time being asked to pay an admission fee is pretty hurtful. The industry seems to be a special members only club and I don't know how much longer I can afford to pay. Ironic when you consider how inexpensive actual writing is, a pen a notebook and your away.

Sharkeatingman

3/18/2014 07:10:41 am

No, Dave said he felt "cheated", which, to me, means he expected something for nothing. Apparently some people are quite used to getting something for nothing, while the rest of us have to pay our way- and, apparently theirs as well. There is an industry within the industry that SELLS information, techniques, tips, courses, books, products, etc. Can't think of a single industry in the world that DOESN'T sell. Organs are donated, but you can still buy one if you need it bad enough. So, stop being naive. SQ has a newsletter, and they provide enough FREE information to anyone who can wipe the Cheese Doodle dust from their fingers and the strength to put down the blunt for two seconds and sign up for it. Beyond that, this is a talent-driven industry. You pay to learn how to do it, and your God-given talent takes over the rest. I only know of one service that gives a 100% money-back guarantee on that talent- my own- but even then, I have certain criteria you have to meet. If you're paying for all of these courses, and all of these products and newsletters and shortcuts, and consultants, and books, and DVD's and software, and on and on, and you still haven't a clue, perhaps it's time to re-evaluate what it is you're supposed to be doing with your life. Another thought might be to can sign up for the class, and find out what it is you're doing wrong; OR, I suppose we could just go ahead and give every person in the industry an Oscar every year, just to be fair and not hurt anyone's feelings.

Karen

3/18/2014 07:28:46 am

Wow I'm sorry you sound so bitter but there are many courses out there that rip people off and this industry is notorious for it. If you don't believe me fair enough. To accuse David of wanting something for nothing is a tad unfair and to be honest there is plenty of free material online that perhaps wouldn't be if it were up to you? There are plenty of books in libraries to borrow, Lew Hunter 434, William Goldman Adventures in the screen trade. From reading your post the only person who's feelings have been hurt appear to be yours.

Karen

3/18/2014 07:30:28 am

Wow I'm sorry you sound so bitter but there are many courses out there that rip people off and this industry is notorious for it. Globally if that hasn't been your experience in your part of the world then I'm truly very happy for you. If you don't believe me fair enough. To accuse David of wanting something for nothing is a tad unfair and to be honest there is plenty of free material online that perhaps wouldn't be if it were up to you? There are plenty of books in libraries to borrow, Lew Hunter 434, William Goldman Adventures in the screen trade. From reading your post the only person who's feelings have been hurt appear to be yours.

Sharkeatingman

3/18/2014 08:03:39 am

Are you sorry that I "sound bitter" or are you sorry that I am bitter? I'm not "accusing" David of anything. Just read his post. He says it himself. Clearly, your comprehension is lacking, because I didn't say anything about not having "free" stuff. I even told you how to get that "free stuff"; sign up for the newsletter.

At least we now see, first-hand, how some people can pay for all of these programs and still not get anything out if it. As I said, it comes down to talent.

Karen

3/18/2014 08:20:54 am

I truly feel sorry for you and that you sound bitter. Hope that clarifies the issue and your need to draw conflict wherever you feel necessary. I wish you the best and hope your talent whatever that may be leads to a long and successful career in whatever it is you choose to do with your life. And yes I'm being sincere. I don't know what courses you've done or what agent you've signed with or whether you are in post/preproduction. But where I'm from we encourage writers of levels and talent. Perhaps the courses you've attend (if any) didn't teach you that. If so it's a failing on their part to not encourage writers to embrace and support the writing community rather than tear other writers down. Good luck because that's what the community is about wishing others well knowing you don't have to compete because your talent shines through and your voice is unique.

Sharkeatingman

3/18/2014 08:29:07 am

Thank you, Karen- and I'm being sincere as well. I do happen to support writers; with two businesses, I'm employing 20 of them at the moment. It's for this reason- my support of writers, the craft, the business and my own lifestyle- that I choose to challenge those who have a perpetual hand out and a permanent entitlement mentality. If that describes you, then it is I who feels sorry for you. I can tell you it certainly describes Mr. Anderson, who felt it necessary to come to a website's newsletter and insult the owners of the site, expecting something for nothing and accusing them of "bait and switch".

karen

3/18/2014 08:42:14 am

Wow I don't why you feel that describes me or why you feel the need to attack me with spiteful comments. Though I would like to point out employing writers is not the same as supporting their creativity and talent and 20 does not reflect the quality or quantity of work being produced. I do not have an entitlement mentality I rather envy those that do. I work two jobs and work hard to chose instead to pay for the many course available and some were run by charlatans yet you have not mentioned them or sanctions for dealing with them and a way of regulating the industry to ensure the information is taught as well as it could be learned. Instead you've chosen to be hateful towards me which I honestly find baffling. I write everyday for at least two hours. If in your eyes that makes me sound entitled then I sincerely wish you the best and especially wish the best of luck and success to those 20 writers you employ.

Script Quack link

3/18/2014 08:35:35 am

There have been plenty of valid points raised in the comments above, and thank you both Geno and Karen for the spirited discussion! Of course we think that this is a worthwhile class, but we understand that there are plenty of classes, books etc. to choose from. Some writers may not feel that those resources are worth the money, and that's perfectly valid.

To each his own, I guess. I look forward to both of your comments on future posts!

Sharkeatingman

3/18/2014 11:03:29 am

Karen- Once again, it comes down to reading comprehension. I'm not sure why you insist I'm referring to you all of the time. I realize you're world may revolve around Planet Karen, but I'm not a part of "that" world. I'm pretty sure I was being specific about to whom I was referring, but, alas, you missed that part as well. Lastly, I'm sure those paid writers I employ are pretty happy with money in the bank, but if I could only get away with an "Atta boy" and good, hearty handshake, I'd much rather do that. Which form of support would you prefer? Never mind, I was being rhetorical, and you probably would perceive it as an insult anyway. Good luck in your future projects and watch out for all of those charlatans pitching their wares!

Karen

3/18/2014 07:25:21 pm

Clearly you enjoy being spiteful towards me "Planet Karen" is a direct insult regardless of what you may or may not "comprehend" which tells me two things. I'm dealing with someone who isn't who they say they are but trolls the internet looking for conversations to jump in and abuse people this is called "trolling" in case you weren't aware. This I understand is common in the US I'm from the UK which brings me to my point two you speak of the writing it were only taught on one continent and writers as if they only exist in the US as I stated in my earlier posts I support and encourage writers. I believe talent exists across the globe. You don't seem to be aware of how training courses work in the UK and you assume talent only exists in the US. I don't however believe you are who you say you are or that you have 20 writers. I think you did that because you thought mistakenly as many trolls do if they throw in a fake status it gives them some kind of status on the topic they're trying to hijack. This I think is definitely true in your case because the post I originally responded to wasn't even yours. Of course you're going to use a ridiculous "Maneatingshark" to try and intimidate and of course you're going to respond to this because as a troll you can't help yourself you have a need to be hateful. Thank you I shall use you as the character in my next script about a middle-aged man with a comb-over seated on a lazy boy chair. He's eating pizza and typing on a laptop. He trolls the internet looking for women to abuse (due to mother abandonment issues). His wife recently left him for a plumber. Hmmm maybe not up to your high standards but hey you've got "20" *cough* BS *cough* writers working for you so between them I'm sure they could create you as character that would make James Bond feel so much cock envy he quits MI5 and raises chickens on a farm somewhere in the outer Hebrides. 20 writers huh? Yet you couldn't get one decent rebuttal just a load a hoary old BS.

Sharkeatingman

3/18/2014 11:34:04 pm

Now, that explains it. You're from England, where I suppose English is your second language, and reading comprehension, along with dental hygiene, is perhaps treated more as an "afterthought". Do yourself a favor: review these posts and locate EXACTLY where you went off the tracks. One can only assume your writing is as eloquent as your language. Must get back to trolling now- have a wonderful life!

karen

3/18/2014 11:49:05 pm

Whatever you say troll, whatever you say! We both know you're lying about who you are through your upper cases. The mark of a true trolling beast. You went off the tracks (not that you were ever on them) when you lied about having 20 writers. What really made me laugh was that you used hoary old stereotypes. Further proving you are not who you say you are because if you had 20 writers they'd have come up with something better than english as a second language and bad dental. i have a piece of writing that for you to use freely. Here goes. instead of calling yourself 'Maneatsshark' call yourself 'Maneatsshit' or better still 'Mantalksshit'. Seriously thank you. I laughed so hard that one of my bad english dentures fell out. You really are funny. Seriously as trolls go you are one of the best xx

David Anderson

3/19/2014 05:13:29 am

Oh my God! Look what I started! Please let me apologise to all concerned. I had no intention of starting what appears to have degenerated into a flame war.

I wrote my original post hastily and without sufficient thought. My fault entirely. I guess I've become too used to receiving excellent advice for free from Script Quack, and was taken by surprise by the request to pay for a course.

Of course, Script Quack is in business to make money. Nothing whatsoever wrong with that. I don't expect nothing for free, except where that is offered.

For example, when I signed up with Script Quack, they offered a free logline analysis. I very gladly accepted and was surprised and delighted to receive a three-page report full of high quality, relevant information which helped me no end in shaping my script and developing a great logline.

Script Quack gave me far, far more than I expected - all at no cost - and I shall certainly use AND PAY FOR their script analysis services when I have a finished (first) draft.

Like most of us aspiring writers, I am happy to pay for books, courses, notes, etc. I just couldn't resist making use of a free service where one was offered.

Again, I apologise to all, most of all to Script Quack, for my rash stupidity.

David Anderson

3/19/2014 05:13:48 am

Comments are closed.

How to Make good writing great

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