I HAVE SCRIPT NOTES FOR YOU – DON’T KILL ME

on Wednesday, August 29, 2012 ·

Two of my recent script consultations freaked out when I gave them notes on their scripts.

My notes were referred to as “Callous.” And “Not helpful at all.” Hmmm.

Getting notes on a script you’ve worked your fingers to bone on is difficult stuff. I know. I’m terrible at getting notes. I get defensive. I do. I’m very passionate about what I write and handle notes badly. I sulk. I get quiet. And when I was younger and stupider, I was getting notes on a rough cut from a marketing exec, my reaction was so extreme, I was fired. So I do understand.

My point is: if you’re looking for notes that make you feel good and don’t make waves, get notes from your mother.

If you want notes that make your scripts better, go to a professional and be open, be accepting, listen, write things down and try not to be defensive.

Then, after you’ve had a chance to live with notes for a while, decide which notes are relevant and do your rewrite.

And if you’re giving notes, be sensitive to writers feelings. Always give notes from the inside (addressing what’s written rather than what’s not) of the script, rather than from outside (like “Have you thought of doing this as a musical?” – not such a good note).

For more on SCRIPT NOTES, read THE LAST WORD – Definitive Answers to All Your Screenwriting Questions.

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Categories: Lazarus Rising · Tags: Kim Kardashian / Tom Lazarus Sex Tape, lazarus rising, michael wiese productions, SCRIPT CONSULTANT, SCRIPT CONSULTATION, The Last Word -- Definitive Answers to all Your Screenwriting Questions by Tom Lazarus, TOM LAZARUS

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I HAVE SCRIPT NOTES FOR YOU – DON’T KILL ME

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