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Note to ProducerPOSTED BY DANNY STACK OVER AT Scriptwriting & Script Reading in the UK.
Back in September, I spoke about the ‘note to reader’ where a script reader’s attention on the script at hand would suddenly be distracted by a line directly aimed at him: “keep an open mind reader, this is unconventional but it works”. This has the opposite effect on readers. Instead of them focusing on your script with an open mind, they’re thinking ‘what a load of presumptuous rubbish’ as they go through page after page.
Writers aren’t the only offenders. No, sir. Producers have a lazy knack of stamping their enthusiastic opinion on their intro letter to the script before you’ve even had a chance to pick it up. This is understandable. The producer has to believe in the project, and wants to pitch it well, and to be fair, the note only appears on the cover letter, not on the script itself.
However, the passionate assertions need to be chosen wisely. Far too often the producer’s opinion of the script will read like false quotes on a movie poster: “One of the most exciting and original scripts I’ve ever read”. “An amazing story, powerful and emotional”. “This has Oscar written all over it.” “We have approached a number of high profile actors for the lead role”. So, just like writers and producers who shouldn’t slip in a discreet ‘note to reader’, here’s a small bit of advice for you: don’t be outlandish in your opinion of the script.
In my script reading spree this month, I read two scripts that, according to the (separate) producers, were the most exciting and original scripts ever written. In reality, one script was well-written but only got a ‘consider’ for the writer (who turned out to be a graduate of some Disney programme, possibly the Nicholl). The other one made me laugh so much (unfortunately, it wasn’t a comedy), it still makes me titter when I think about it now because of its ridiculous premise and story line (written by a D-list actor).
To continue read what producers shouldn't do to readers, follow this link.
//Danny Stack
Categories: [industry_] [general_]Labels: Danny Stack, general, industry
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