Seven Online Articles Covering Screenwriting

INTRODUCTION: The following compilation of articles mainly focus on screenwriting. Formatting guideline are important for screenwriters, because a seasoned producer quickly spots a novice filmmaker. There are obvious and subtle clues that show a writers’ weakness.

INDEX:

1. How to write Sound Effects in a Script - StudioBinder

2. Everything Screenwriters Need to Know About Transitions - Nashville Film Institute

3. Screenplay Format: Everything You Need To Know - StudioBinder

4. Screenplay Format - Wichita State University

5. How to Write A Movie Review: 9 Essential Tips - New York Film Academy

6. Ryan Gosling & Alec Baldwin in an excerpt from "Seduced and Abandoned" by James Toback - YouTube

7. A Better Film Crew List Template Booking Sheet - StudioBinder

How to write Sound Effects in a Script

Kyle DeGuzman; August 21, 2022

When learning how to write sounds in text it is important to first note if the sound is important to the plot. If the sound is important to the scene, such as the sound of a gun shot that causes characters to run, then it is typically written in an action line in all capitalized letters.

When using the StudioBinder screenwriting app, select the “Action” icon in the top toolbar. Write out the action and when the story comes to the sound effect, write the sound effect in all capitalized letters. Because these sound effects fall under the category of diegetic sound, they should be written as onomatopoeia rather than the description of the sound effect itself. For example, rather than writing sounds like “gunshot” write “bang”.

When learning how to write sounds in text it is important to first note if the sound is important to the plot. If the sound is important to the scene, such as the sound of a gun shot that causes characters to run, then it is typically written in an action line in all capitalized letters.

When using the StudioBinder screenwriting app, select the “Action” icon in the top toolbar. Write out the action and when the story comes to the sound effect, write the sound effect in all capitalized letters. Because these sound effects fall under the category of diegetic sound, they should be written as onomatopoeia rather than the description of the sound effect itself. For example, rather than writing sounds like “gunshot” write “bang”.

Source URL: https://www.studiobinder.com/blog/how-to-write-sound-effects-in-a-script/

Everything Screenwriters Need to Know About Transitions

Ken Miyamoto; Updated July 1, 2021

Screenplay transitions were cues to the editing team that communicated how transitions between shots were to be handled.

CUT TO was a simple direction that stipulated the literal cut from one scene to another — usually, but not always, referring to a location change as well.

In older scripts, you would find such a transition between every new scene.

Variations began to show up, dictating artistic but technical transitions ranging from FADE IN to FADE OUT and especially DISSOLVE TO, which was a prevalent transition as films like Citizen Kane pushed the boundaries of art meeting the technology of film.

Source URL: https://screencraft.org/blog/everything-screenwriters-need-to-know-about-transitions/

Screenplay Format: Everything You Need To Know

Nashville Film Institute; Accessed 6-13-23

Fade in: This is the starting point of every script. It’s when the figurative “curtain” lifts and the story begins. This transition phrase should only be used once at the very beginning of your script, right before the first scene heading or scene description paragraph. The phrase should be in all caps and end in a colon to indicate continuation as the story begins to unfold, as such — FADE IN:

If your story starts with a voice-over or a sound effect before the audience sees any visuals, you can begin the script with OVER BLACK, then write the character’s voice-over as CHARACTER NAME (V.O.) and the line or just write the sound effect in the action line. Once your story introduces a visual, that’s when you can use “FADE IN:” to officially begin.

Source URL: https://www.nfi.edu/screenplay-format/

Screenplay Format

Wichita State University; Accessed 6-13-23

1 1/2 inch left margin.

1 inch right margin.

Capitalize the names of characters when they f first appear in the narrative and each time they speak.

Capitalize sounds, special effects, and specialized props. (This assists a production manager in analyzing and budgeting the script.

Source Url: https://www.wichita.edu/services/mrc/documents/Screenplay_Format_Examples.pdf

How to Write a Movie Review: 9 Essential Tips

New York Film Academy; April 7, 2023

Many casual filmgoers will be inspired to see a movie if a favorite actor is in it, so you should probably spend a little space talking about the performances. Does the film feature a seasoned actor in a new kind of role or a brilliant performance from a rising star? How was the acting? Feedback about how well the actors handled the script, the dynamics in an ensemble, and so much more can help describe how the actors did in any given film.

8. Reread, rewrite, and edit. Edit your work. Your opinions will not be taken seriously if you misspell the director’s name or can’t put together a grammatically correct sentence. Take the time to check your spelling and edit your piece for organizational flow.

9. Find your voice. The best reviewers have a distinct personality that comes across in their writing. This does not happen overnight, so take every opportunity to write as an opportunity to develop your own style and voice that will grab the reader’s attention and keep them coming back for more.

Source URL: https://www.nyfa.edu/student-resources/9-tips-for-writing-a-film-review/

Ryan Gosling & Alec Baldwin in an excerpt from "Seduced and Abandoned" by James Toback

YouTube; Feb 17, 2014

'Drive' heartthrob Ryan Gosling gives an entertaining insight into the perils of the Hollywood audition in this clip, also featuring Alec Baldwin, from award-winning director James Toback's latest documentary "Seduced and Abandoned”.

Source URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E3ea9teCPv0

A Better Film Crew List Template Booking Sheet

Darya Danesh; October 1, 2019

Production contact lists tend to be pretty simple (name, role, email, phone). But what about all the other details you’ll need to commonly keep track of for cast and crew (i.e. day rates, paperwork status, agent contact info, wardrobe sizes, etc.)? How about vendors, props, or rentals?

Source URL: https://www.studiobinder.com/blog/film-crew-list-template/#the-rental-sheet

Short Introduction to Consistent Exercise

I’m preparing to push my fitness to the limit after a recent foot injury that slowed me down for a year. Reading diet and exercise articles motivates me to stay healthy in and out of the gym. What if you lived your best life? Would that include being healthy? I’ve compiled a list of controversial and accepted quotations to consider before your next workout. 

The row machine is the most complete warm-up tool for the gym. A ‘Men’s Health’ article states, “- according to British rowing, each stroke on the machine uses 85 per cent of your muscles — across the nine major muscle groups— meaning that a full-body smoking is guaranteed, as is a spiked heart-rate and a white-hot fat-burn, as 300kcals are eviscerated in just 30 minutes of rowing” (Cooper). 300 to 500 kcal can be used in an hour workout, therefore the row machine is quick and engages a majority of your muscles. I like to start my workouts with five minutes on the row machine on the most difficult setting, because all the personal trainers I’ve had began with a warmup. Each weightlifting trainer recommended 5 minute warmups.

There is a controversial weight lifting testimonial claiming a man gained 63 pounds of muscle in 28 days. May 1st to May 29th in 1973 had Casey Viator complete 14 brief workouts with Arthur Jones. (Heffernan) Many dietitians say gaining weight that fast would be very unhealthy, as well as improbably. Arthur Jones experiment claims that high intensity training for short periods of time led to massive gains. I’d say do not expect such results, but less extreme results do occur for Hollywood actors. Check out Christian Bale’s transformation for the Batman movies or Tom Hardy in ‘Bronson’.

Colorado Experiment (Before and After) Claim

There are many skeptics for gaining 63 pounds of muscle in 28 days. Randy Roach, author of Muscle, Smoke, and Mirrors said “He [Arthur Jones] wanted, I’d say in my opinion, a hyper-inflated marketing vehicle for his training ideology and his equipment. Exercise equipment technology that was at a time when weight resistant exercise was about to break into whole new industries outside of just the iron game which was bodybuilding. weightlifting, and powerlifting” (STGStrengthandPower). Gaining 63 pounds of muscle with today’s technology seems farfetched but in 1973 it would be even wilder. It’s hard to find the formula to the claims unless I purchase Arthur Jone’s book, so I’ll leave the Colorado Experiment infamously shrouded.

Healthy adults need 150 minutes of physical activity each week according to the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. They also say 2 days of muscle strengthening activity. Treadmill junkies should add some upper body resistance training, and the gym bros can’t skip leg day. Spreading the time over 5 days is a recommended way to build a healthy fitness routine into manageable 30 minute workouts. These short workouts fit into the Colorado Experiment but novice weightlifters should not start doing reps of 3-5 on the first day or fitness cycle. Health is about preventing injuries and living the best quality of physical life. 

CDC Routine Recommended for Health Benefits

Loading up on carbs before a workout is important according to the National Academy of Sports Medicine. These are the people who certify personal trainers. Lee Murphy wrote on the NASM webiste, “This much lead time [2-4 hours]  can allow people to safely eat up to about 1,000 nutritious calories that will be ready for fueling the activity (Smith & Collene 2015). If lead times are much shorter (a pre-7 a.m. workout, for example), eating a smaller meal of less than 300-400 calories about an hour before the workout can suffice.” I’ve talked to many people about the best time to eat, and the answer appears to be often. The real question appears to be what to eat and how much. 

Replenishing carbs after a workout is important, too. Lee Murphy posted on the National Academy of Sports Medicine website, “For a 150-pound athlete, that equates to between 68 and 102 g of carbs (or ~ 4.5-6.5 servings of carbs) immediately after exercise. Since this can be difficult to consume in whole foods shortly after activity, liquid and bar supplements may be useful and convenient after exercise” (Murphy). Supplement Superstore or GNC has options incase real food is too hard to get your hands on. Whole foods are the best way to get nutrients, but I do see benefits as using supplements as a plan b.  

Murphy continues, “Ideally, athletes should repeat this carbohydrate load for 2-hour intervals for up to 6 hours, or transition to carbohydrate snacks and meals if another intense training session will occur within 24 hours (Smith & Collene 2015). Consuming smaller amounts of carbohydrates more frequently may be prudent if the previous recommendation leaves the athlete feeling too full.” I feel exhausted after heavy workouts. My energy might be boosted with more food and your might, too. Consider an athletes diet for your next intense workout routine. 

How much water does an average person need?  Flushing out toxins, staying hydrated, and sweating are three basic functions of water in your body. According to Harvard, - even a healthy person's water needs will vary, especially if you're losing water through sweat because you're exercising, or because you're outside on a hot day. If you're wondering how much water you should drink on those occasions, speak with your doctor, but a general rule of thumb for healthy people is to drink two to three cups of water per hour, or more if you're sweating heavily.” I know I drink a liter when I’m working out for an hour. I have trouble keeping track when I’m not in the gym so I try and hit 4 liters a day total. Apparently some medications can change water requirements so consult your doctor before any strenuous exercise regiment.

Jumping in the gym is a lot of fun and gets the endorphins going. It’s proven to boost mood and lower depression. It can be scary to get started so let me motivate you with knowledge. People want to see you in the gym. The gym is a healthy place that can improve your life. Learning controversial as well as safe tactics to stay healthy makes for a rewarding and fun fitness journey.

Work Cited:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022, June 2). How much physical activity do adults need? Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved September 4, 2022, from https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/basics/adults/index.htm#:~:text=Each%20week%20adults%20need%20150,Physical%20Activity%20Guidelines%20for%20Americans.&text=We%20know%20150%20minutes%20of,do%20it%20all%20at%20once

Cooper, E. (2021, July 1). This 20-minute rowing workout strips fat and builds lean muscle. Men's Health. Retrieved September 3, 2022, from https://www.menshealth.com/uk/fitness/a758565/this-20-minute-rowing-workout-strips-fat-and-builds-lean-muscle/?fbclid=IwAR10t409ef1gFm0EN5KrHcVBdHKsfwTuXLPsBTVs8RdTAJXk0YTDqtZEoaY

Harvard University. (2022, May 15). How much water should you drink? Harvard Health. Retrieved September 5, 2022, from https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/how-much-water-should-you-drink

Heffernan, C. (2014, December 29). How to gain 63 pounds of muscle in 28 Days: The Infamous Colorado Experiment. Physical Culture Study. Retrieved September 3, 2022, from https://physicalculturestudy.com/2014/12/29/how-to-gain-63-pounds-of-muscle-in-28-days-the-infamous-colorado-experiment/

Murphy, L. (2017). Nutrient timing: What to eat before and after a workout. NASM. Retrieved September 5, 2022, from https://blog.nasm.org/workout-and-nutrition-timing

STGStrengthandPower. (2019). The Truth About the Colorado Experiment . YouTube. Retrieved September 2, 2022, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2kwMBpc6e8o&t=1s

Back from Los Angeles

Los Angeles keeps moving and moving! Especially when you’re me and Theo. I walked miles, drove hundreds of miles, and savored every good moment I could. Shoot outs, car chases, and even mystery flower deliveries. It was one wild trip!

Before I dig in the excitement, I want to finish the list I started. On my first visit to Los Angeles as an adult, I also visited Malibu Lagoon State Beach, Malibu Kitchen & Gourmet Market, Starbucks (twice), the Griffith Observatory entrance, a vista of the Las Virgenes Valley, The Chinese Theatre, La Café in downtown LA, and the end of Route 66 at the Santa Monica Pier! That about covers it besides a handful of restaurants.

I sigh heavily before writing this. It was a wild adventure. I don’t go on vacations often. Once a year at best. When I go somewhere, I try and have a purpose. Therefore, I can write it off as a business expense and this trip was case and point.

Upon this recon mission to find viable sources of filmmakers to associate with was a shoot out on my birthday, I had to jump from a moving car, and a guy rushed over to me and my friend asking us to give flowers to the hostess at Mr. Chow. Crazy stuff.

Other wild things were driving a rented Ford Fusion Ecoboost AWD through the canyons at night, flying down the highway, putting my ear to the ground in Malibu, and talking fitness at Muscle Beach. It wasn’t all bad. Malibu is beautiful. Multiple times I had to hold back tears cause I couldn’t believe it.

The purpose of the trip was to network, and I did network. I met up with some alumni from Webster University who live in Los Angeles, I was introduced to an Executive Producer and discussed the world (very thankful for that), and I met up with a friend who had just changed film at Drake’s house! Also, before I left, I was able to get the contact information from my childhood babysitter who now works in motion picture post-production.

The trip was a success. This post leaves out many details, but how can I fit numerous days of abstract events into a blog post? I don’t make that kind of time for a free online journal. If you have read this far, thank you.

Los Angeles: June 17 through June 20

I hear California opened up June 15th. That’s two days before I arrive, and only one after my friend touched down. I haven’t been to Los Angeles since I was 5 years old. I remember the dinner theatre Medieval Times, fancy cars along the beach, and my uncle teasing me for ordering french toast a certain way. Silly memories of my childhood. Luckily I was able to have them, but it’s time to make new memories.

John Wayne Airport; June 17th, 2021

I fly into John Wayne Airport in Orange County, California. That was the original plan in 2020 before the wildfires cancelled my California desire. The airport is smaller than LAX and has many private planes. Navigating the airport is easy, and I rent a new Ford Fusion Turbo. The car has spirit as it keeps pace with the heavy highway traffic. I’m glad to be driving.

My friend Theo Lodato kept pushing for the trip, and it’s fueling my dream. I don’t know what I’d do without a dream. He is closing an executive producer deal on a new Dustin Hoffman project about the struggles of old love. The film is written and directed by Mayim Bialik. My friend is proud. It’s good to see. I’m happy to be along for the ride, and see what the area has to offer.

Here are the spots I hit this week as of 1:58 PM 6/20/21: John Wayne Airport, Long Beach City Beach, Long Beach Art Museum, California Pizza Kitchen (Long Beach), Topanga Rocks (aka Jalan Jalan Imports), Frenwood Market, Hilton Garden Inn Calabases, Warner Center, Santa Monica, Venice Beach, Muscle Beach, Salt & Straw Ice Cream, Rocco’s WeHo, The Body Shop, Bobby’s Coffee Shop, Mother Nature’s Remedy, WET DECK at the W Hotel, Rainbow Bar & Grill, The Viper Room (outside only [it looked closed]), The Grove, Malibu Beach, Rodeo Drive (at night).

These are some of my thoughts. Got to go explore some more.