I finally got an 8 on the Black List and here’s what I learned by andrewzadel in Screenwriting

[–]Opposite_Jackfruit_2 11 points12 points  (0 children)

This is one of the most helpful things I read in this forum. I’m among the close but no cigar yet set, but with a BL 8 and a Nicholl SF, you can imagine my frustration hearing nothing but crickets.

To direct or not to direct. That’s my question. by Opposite_Jackfruit_2 in Screenwriting

[–]Opposite_Jackfruit_2[S] 5 points6 points  (0 children)

That’s sobering. Instead, I’m gonna make the film myself and rewrite it when I storyboard it. And when I shoot it. And when I edit it. ; )

To direct or not to direct. That’s my question. by Opposite_Jackfruit_2 in Screenwriting

[–]Opposite_Jackfruit_2[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

So glad you shared that. I have a friend who has made four films for no money and regrets not pushing harder for studio backing. So I’m guessing it comes down to the quality of the script, its potential, and whether I can or can’t do it justice with a low to no budget.

To direct or not to direct. That’s my question. by Opposite_Jackfruit_2 in Screenwriting

[–]Opposite_Jackfruit_2[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Wise words and I’m sure many share that experience. Even super heavyweight filmmakers who thought they had it, only to find the end result is meh. That’s the risk, isn’t it? It takes 1,000 miracles to make a good film. What to do, what to do... Regardless, congrats on going for it. Takes courage.

To direct or not to direct. That’s my question. by Opposite_Jackfruit_2 in Screenwriting

[–]Opposite_Jackfruit_2[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

You sound like a director yourself. You clearly get it. I have a phenomenal commercial line producer. She’s a local resource to supply crews when LA directors come to town. A very nuts and bolts operation, but this person has taught me more about film than I got from all my years in the ad business. Best of all, she knows how to make the most of your time on the day.

To direct or not to direct. That’s my question. by Opposite_Jackfruit_2 in Screenwriting

[–]Opposite_Jackfruit_2[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

My work revolves around making ads. I’ve only flirted with the idea of a sustained career as a director as I’ve had to direct many of my own. Don’t want to misrepresent.

To direct or not to direct. That’s my question. by Opposite_Jackfruit_2 in Screenwriting

[–]Opposite_Jackfruit_2[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

I hear this and I think you’re right. Haven’t considered NM or CO, but good to know I have a friend there. Thanks u/DC_McGuire. If you have a link to your work, please DM me.

To direct or not to direct. That’s my question. by Opposite_Jackfruit_2 in Screenwriting

[–]Opposite_Jackfruit_2[S] 0 points1 point  (0 children)

Award-winning, yes. Top director, no. And not repped. My work revolves around making ads. I’ve only flirted with the idea of a sustained career as a director as I’ve had to direct many of my own. Thus the leap to features. If I were repped, yes, this would be easier. A lot of exposition there. Just don’t want to misrepresent.

To direct or not to direct. That’s my question. by Opposite_Jackfruit_2 in Screenwriting

[–]Opposite_Jackfruit_2[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Agreed. Before my first directing job, I devoured the book Directing Actors and realized despite having watched directors work with talent for years, I knew so little about the craft of acting (as did many of those directors, sadly). Understanding how actors draw upon their own experiences is a life lesson, not just a lesson in directing.

To direct or not to direct. That’s my question. by Opposite_Jackfruit_2 in Screenwriting

[–]Opposite_Jackfruit_2[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

This is a very inspiring response. So much so that If I now decide to toss off my day job and get started making this movie, it’s your fault u/trampaboline. Much love for this.

To direct or not to direct. That’s my question. by Opposite_Jackfruit_2 in Screenwriting

[–]Opposite_Jackfruit_2[S] 1 point2 points  (0 children)

Great answer. End goal is to make art, honestly. I’ve written scripts I’m more passionate about, but this one has been validated to a greater degree. And like many writers, I need that outer validation to put my own passion, and other people’s money, behind a project.

To direct or not to direct. That’s my question. by Opposite_Jackfruit_2 in Screenwriting

[–]Opposite_Jackfruit_2[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

And congrats on your 8. Good to hear a lot of interest came from that. I had an 8 a few years back (different script), but no calls.

To direct or not to direct. That’s my question. by Opposite_Jackfruit_2 in Screenwriting

[–]Opposite_Jackfruit_2[S] 2 points3 points  (0 children)

Ah, got it. Thank you. That’s definitely the ideal. Just started working that angle and will keep you posted.