During my foray into reality TV, I came to understand that the story producers/editors are essentially the writers. Although they are not writing screenplays with dialog and action, they are outlining what needs to happen for each episode of the series to be engaging. Their …
Behind the Scenes: How Reality TV Comes to Life
I’ll admit, I don’t watch reality TV. I mean, I’ve occasionally watched a few episodes out of curiosity, but my real interest is in how it’s made and what makes it successful. Since there has been little work for me in the world of scripted …
The WGA and SAG Strike: A Crossroads for Hollywood But a Boon for Vancouver’s Independent Filmmaking?
WHAT’S HAPPENING Even for those who are not “in the industry” a hotly debated topic of conversation these days is, of course, the ongoing WGA and SAG/AFTRA dual strike. It’s a hot bed of complex issues, with far-reaching implications for the global film industry. It …
Review and Comparison of the Top 10 Freelance Virtual Work Websites
The rise of the gig economy has paved the way for an abundance of freelance virtual work opportunities. With numerous platforms available, it can be overwhelming for you choose the right one that aligns with your skills and goals. Below, I’ve done some of the …
Budget Template
If you don’t have Movie Magic Budgeting, you can begin creating your budget using my Indie Budget Template. In this budget template, you have different categories related to the various stages of your film production: Development, Pre-production, Production, and Post-production. Each category includes specific line …
10 Steps for Rewriting Your First Draft
Rewriting a screenplay is like sculpting a piece of art. It’s a process of refining, reshaping, and sometimes even starting over. Here’s a step-by-step approach that I’ve found to be effective: Take a Break: After you’ve finished your first draft, take a little time away …
10 Steps to Breakdown Scripts for Budgeting
Read the Script: Start by thoroughly reading the script to gain a clear understanding of the story, characters, locations, and any specific requirements. Create a Script Breakdown Sheet: Set up a spreadsheet or use specialized script breakdown software to create a breakdown sheet. Each row …
Overview of Production
Budgeting: Determine your film’s budget by considering factors such as script requirements, production scale, crew size, equipment needs, locations, and post-production expenses. Seek funding through investors, grants, crowdfunding, or personal financing. This begins with your breakdown of the script! NOTE: You can download my free …
Mobile Office Gear
Freelance life – aaaah, the joy of working from home – or in my Jeep! When I’m not working in the production office of a film or tv series, you’ll find me close to set. But I don’t always have the luxury of a cast …
Character & Story
Story comes out of Character. No matter what world you create for your characters, or the inciting incident that sets them on their journey, nor even the conflict you think will drive the story, it all goes nowhere if your character is not well developed. …