Saturday Hot Links

Screenwriting Master Class tip of the week: So this whole Quest thing has sorta taken off. And I’m happy to work with up to four writers in the “Go Into The Story: The Quest” initiative — for free. I’m happy to support those of you who will piggyback on that process with “Go On Your Own Quest.” But do you realize this is all based on something called The Quest [no quotes] that I offer through SMC?

You can read about it here. There is nothing like The Quest offered anywhere else and after months of preparation and beta testing, I am excited to launch it.

Why is The Quest unique?

* Coherent: Like most writers, you’ve probably picked up a little bit of insight here, some ideas there, a Smörgåsbord of concepts that either works… or doesn’t. The Quest derives from one perspective on the craft: Mine. If you like what you read here on GITS, you get that. Much, much more of it.

* Comprehensive: It’s 8 weeks of theory [Core], 6 weeks of breaking your story [Prep], 10 weeks of pounding out that first draft [Pages]. Everything tied and working together to inspire and inform your creative process. What’s more, you can use this approach on all future writing projects.

* Character-based: It seems to me a vast majority of screenwriting theories and paradigms focus almost exclusively on screenplay plot which is in my view a big reason why so many managers, agents, producers, and execs complain about formulaic scripts and thin characters. With The Quest, everything starts and ends with characters. And the plot? It emerges from the characters. As in Character = Plot.

I have designed The Quest as a one-on-one private workshop. It’s pricey, yes. But you not only get all of the above, you get me as your mentor. Written feedback. Teleconferences. As a screenwriter, you make hundreds and hundreds of story choices. How much value is it to have an experienced writer and educator watching your back?

Plus with that one-on-one dynamic, we can focus on the bigger picture: It’s not just about writing a script, it’s about getting knowledge — specific principles and practices — to help you think like a professional screenwriter. Long-term, this maximizes your chances of achieving success in Hollywood and other film centers.

I have poured twenty-five years of knowledge, heart, and soul into this workshop. My passion for it is why I decided to do the “Go Into The Story: The Quest” initiative.

You don’t have to wait. I am accepting a select few writers to take up The Quest with me. I will cap that number to ensure I have enough time to really dig into each participant’s story. And I won’t be taking on any others for several months.

We’re all excited about “Go Into The Story: The Quest.” And “Go On Your Own Quest.” I’d like to add the inspiration for the whole thing into the mix: The Quest.

As always I look forward to the opportunity to work with you.

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