Quote: simon wright @ January 30 2013, 10:58 PM GMTGood question. Thanks for raising it. Don't get hung up on page numbers. It's time that matters. Read it aloud (preferably with other people) and time it.
Thanks muchly. Just realised that stage directions have to be read out when timing a script too, especially given the new format of the comp. Do'h ...
Quote: Alan O'Brien @ February 11 2013, 11:20 AM GMTJust realised that stage directions have to be read out when timing a script too, especially given the new format of the comp.
Is this the case? Do we need to take into account the stage directions in terms of the timing or do we just need to time the dialogue and the actions that take place?
Quote: Penge @ February 14 2013, 10:09 AM GMTIs this the case? Do we need to take into account the stage directions in terms of the timing or do we just need to time the dialogue and the actions that take place?
Maybe 'stage directions' was a bit misleading by me. I just mean that when I am timing my script I am including the non-dialogue bits - 'scene 1. pub garden', 'so-and-so comes bounding in'; that kind of thing. My understanding is that if one's script makes it to the four that are read out to the industry people, then a script reader will read out the things I've mentioned above. This is included in the 15-min timing. Obviously, there are exceptions to reading everything on the page out, like where you have written 'pause' (you can just observe a pause when practising your read-through).
Alan
I'm sure everyone has already seen this, but just in case you haven't, here's an excellent article by the wonderful Hayley McKenzie
It's very quiet on here, given that the deadline for this is 3 and a bit weeks away.
Is everyone working hard on scripts instead of writing on a forum?
Oh...
I'm still wondering what to cut from my 41 pages to get it down to 15 minutes!
I'd start with the words.
Even the good ones?
Maybe cut out all the small words, the, and, it, I, and suchlike, and see if what you've got left works.
PM me if you'd like to come.
A few questions
Are your PM's charged at premium rates?
Do you cater for people who have more than a passing interest in Nylon Bonnets?
Can I smoke after reading any reply?
Have just been pm'd the following questions, and am posting them in case they help anybody else:
1 after 15 minutes are we to leave a cliff hanger or come to an end
2 I have written something that has actors ranging from early twenties to mid sixties ,would the actors be of the right age or do you use the same group of actors that fit whatever role
3 sitcom trials and sitcom mission are you two separate competitions?
4 where can I view scripts that have made it to previous finals
Answers are:
1No cliffhanger please, though structuring your script to a climax will help your cause. Sitcom Trials showcase scripts in 2 sections; up to the cliffhanger, and (if voted through) a short second section. We want self-contained episodes that end satisfyingly (but unexpectedly).
2You focus on the writing, not the casting. Writers have enough to think about.
3Yes, two separate competitions.
4Check out the blog section where you can read the excellent Thunderer.
No comment on the PM 4 porn caper front then?
Quote: simon wright @ March 11 2013, 2:39 PM GMTHave just been pm'd the following questions, and am posting them in case they help anybody else:
1 after 15 minutes are we to leave a cliff hanger or come to an end
2 I have written something that has actors ranging from early twenties to mid sixties ,would the actors be of the right age or do you use the same group of actors that fit whatever role
3 sitcom trials and sitcom mission are you two separate competitions?
4 where can I view scripts that have made it to previous finals
I'd have answered with:
1. Read the rules of the competition.
2. Read the rules of the competition.
3. Read the rules of the competition(s).
4. Check out the blog section where you can read the excellent Thunderer.
I read the Thunderer and I have to be honest it didn't do it for me at all. Comedy is subjective so my views count for little, but I have to say I was surprised at the lack of quality in the winning script.
What should happen on the screen when you upload a Script? (I can't tell if mines been uploaded or not)