More About Me
I fancy myself a story teller, or at least a good critic of story telling which ends up being half the battle. I have found that the telling of a good story is in the retelling, or better yet the writing of a good story is in the re-writing. I possess the ability to look at an element in a story and determine whether it works or not in the story. I have discovered that in many cases the writer needs to get out of the way of the story. Too often the stories we write are too much about us and the real stories get lost in all the clever little things we try to slip in, in our witty banter, funny scenes or outrageous actions. Good stories stand on their own, they have strong characters and good structure.
But like all writers I suffer from getting in the way of my own stories. Often I am so critical of my work that it never gets finished. I have put many projects on the shelves over the years in favor of being a professional in the film and corporate video world. I have put together training videos for the past 5 years as a producer and director, and worked in just about every crew position there is on a set as a freelancer for 8 years before that. I know the nuts and bolts of taking a story from the page and bringing it to life on camera. I know the importance of every person that appears to be standing around doing nothing on a set from the craft service person to background actor. I've negotiated contracts with SAG and filled out Exhibit-G's. I've worked with big names and unknowns and realize that at the end of the day everyone brings something to the greatest collaborative art work ever known.
I am excited by what Amazon Studios has to offer. If for no other reason to turn my attention back to what I have always loved so much about this business, the creative art of story. I recognize that the biggest challenge a writer has is to get good, honest, critical feedback. It can be tough to hear sometimes when you have poured your heart into a piece, but it is the kindest thing a stranger can do for the writer is to tell him honestly where the problems and failings in his story reside. The worst thing a writer can hear about their story is, "I liked it.......It was nice. (and nothing else)" Fluffy compliments are empty and worthless. If the story is really good it will ignite excitement and enthusiasm, if not, if it is "nice", "cute", etc. then something is lacking and that is what the writer needs to know. Finally, Amazon Studios is providing a forum to not only get feedback, but offering incentives to listen to that feedback.
If I review your script or test movie I hope you will not be offended or hurt by anything I may say. I may not get your concept or what you are trying to convey, and it may be that I am stupid or ignorant, but it may also be that you have not communicated your story sufficiently for me to get it. There may be differences in preferences, but for the most part I will do my best to evaluate your work based on the strength of the story, the characters and the structure.
I would love to find a piece on here to produce and direct as a test movie, or better yet as a feature offering from Amazon Studios. I look forward to getting to know those of you out there still holding on to the dream of being in the movies.
Cheers,
-Scott
