Merging two characters into one

One of the comments I got back from a pro writer/producer regarding “Vermin” was there were too many characters in some scenes to keep track of. I am contemplating merging two into one. Unfortunately, it’ll be a little harder to achieve than just simple math.

The Grey by Joe Carnahan and Ian Mackenzie Jeffers

Finally got time to read “The Grey” by Joe Carnahan and Ian Mackenzie Jeffers. The screenplay is not an easy read. Very heavy, with a lot of action. If this had been from a first time screenwriter, it would likely be frowned upon due to the immense blocks of text. However, the story, about an oil rig crew trying to outrun a pack of wolves after their plane crashes in the Arctic, grabs hold of you and doesn’t let go. It’s a page turner to the end.

I understand Bradley Cooper, star of “The Hangover”, has signed on to star. That wouldn’t have been my first choice for the lead, but I’m sure he’s got the acting chops to pull it off.

Killing all my darlings

Well, I have so far excised at least 16 pages from my recent screenplay “Vermin”, while still retaining the driving narrative. Sometimes you can’t see the forest for the trees and a look from outside eyes is just what you need.

John Hughes scripts

Just ran across a good collection of John Hughes scripts.

You can find them here.

Great notes from a pro writer/producer

I just got back some immensely helpful notes on my most recent screenplay “Vermin” from a talented pro writer/producer.

I am in the process of reworking the script to accommodate some of the suggestions. I should have a new draft of the script by the end of the week.

Lymelife

[3/5 stars] Most certainly does not put the fun in dysfuntional, but that’s part of its strength. The casting is odd, but oddly perfect, with everyone turning in exceptional, complex performances. There is a feeling of unease, of unpredictability, throughout the film. I felt cold just watching it. However, one thing you won’t feel is hopelessness for the characters. It’s a solid, believable film.

Nick and Norah's Infinite Playlist

[3.5/5 stars] Fun movie, good friends, good music, bursting with youthful energy. What else do you need? Recurring bits that are actually funny helps. Smart dialogue. Lots of laugh out loud moments. It is clear that the friends in the film really care about one another. It didn’t feel superficial and it left me feeling nostalgic for my own youth, but not in a envious, “wish I had done that different” kind of way. Here’s to all nighters with good friends.

Awake

[2.5/5 stars] Explaining the premise, the hook, and showing how the movie ends in the first two minutes can backfire in a big way. Sometimes it works, and sometimes it doesn’t. In this case, it works, sort of. What we’re left with is a reasonably suspenseful movie peppered with meaningless flashbacks, some mercifully short embarrassing voice-over and shameful portrayals of very complex medical procedures. The twist that comes next is cleverly disguised, but it only leaves one outcome for the movie and you can smell it a mile away. Critics panned this, but it’s not quite that bad.

The Champ

[3.5/5 stars] A solid, emotionally compelling story backed by equally strong performances. John Voight plays Billy Flynn masterfully and the debut performance of Ricky Schroder as his son is honest and heartbreaking. Although a little melodramatic at times, the final sequence had me in tears. Over thirty years later, the themes and subject matter (gambling, single parenthood, alcohol abuse, depression) is still as important today as it was then. It is a shame Hollywood doesn’t make more films like this today.

Precious: Based on the Novel Push by Sapphire

[4/5 stars] A brilliant portrait of resilience and absolute belief in ones self, and in others, to overcome a teenager’s worst nightmare. At times, very hard to watch due to the mental and physical abuse. The film has a level of authenticity and rawness that is missing from most of today’s cinematic offerings. But what really sets this film on a different level are the performances. Newcomer Gabourey Sidibe as an uncanny ability to capture not only our hearts and sympathies, but the characters she interacts with as well. Mo’Nique’s portrayal of Precious’ mother is frighteningly real, a true monster. The rest of the cast is peppered with a few familiar faces playing real characters. This is a very strong film that tells one story very well.