Transcript for February 19, 2012 - John Vorhaus Talking Comedy

Thanks so much to John Vorhaus (Twitter handle: @truefactbarfact) for chatting with us tonight. He was such a great guest on Script Chat and he was generous enough to join us to talk TV.

There are some GREAT tidbits in this chat. Enjoy.

And thanks to @zacsanford2 and @grayjones for co-moderating the chat tonight.


Talking comedy w/
@TrueFactBarFact.
2012-02-20 2:26 am Jamie_LD Oh yeah, it's that time again. RT @anniewood: ready to get my #
tvwriterchat #scriptchat on! #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:27 am TrueFactBarFact Hello Mr. and Mrs. America and all the ships at sea.n #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:27 am TrueFactBarFact John Vorhaus is brought to you today by The Little Book of SITCOM :)
http://t.co/t6oFcV9Z #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:27 am GrayJones Gray Jones from http://t.co/m8FGs8bZ partner of Script Magazine
here… ready for #tvwriterchat w/ John Vorhaus, author of Comic
Toolbox.
2012-02-20 2:28 am GrayJones Welcome to @truefactbarfact! #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:28 am GrayJones Reminder John Vorhaus @TrueFactBarFact had a great podcast
interview recently: http://t.co/Wjpr0gTR #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:28 am GrayJones My family is grateful I read Comic Toolbox... but wants me to read it
again and get it right. ;-) #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:28 am SarahAlexis4 Hi everybody! #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:29 am TrueFactBarFact lol. grateful why? Because you're off tragedy?nn #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:30 am GrayJones .@TeelaJBrown had question: My latest pilot is breaking out as 4
acts, no teaser. Think I can get away w/ it? #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:30 am zacsanford2 'ello everyone. Can't wait to hear the wise words of @truefactbarfact
tonight! #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:30 am Jamie_LD Great book RT @TrueFactBarFact: John Vorhaus is brought to you
today by The Little Book of SITCOM :) http://t.co/hdhxE6ei #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:30 am GrayJones Just that I've started to be funnier. They want more! ;-) RT
@TrueFactBarFact: lol. grateful why? Because youre off tragedy? #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:30 am TrueFactBarFact Teela: hourlong? No problem. Make your own rules.nn #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:31 am TrueFactBarFact Thanks Jamie. People are really liking it. Best part: no recycled
content from the comic toolbox. all fresh meat.n #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:31 am anniewood @TrueFactBarFact make your own rules. i love you already. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:32 am Jamie_LD @TrueFactBarFact Definitely all fresh. I have both books and highly
recommend them. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:32 am TrueFactBarFact Pardon all typos. My dog is in my lap, and he has a (small, dog-size)
mind of his own when it comes to what I type. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:32 am OfficeHooky Hey everyone! #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:32 am Jamie_LD @TrueFactBarFact Q: my big problem is coming up with the "gross
exaggeration" Any Suggestions? #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:33 am GrayJones John-- re: make own rules -- do you think writing spec TV eps first is
best, or go straight to pilots? #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:33 am Jamie_LD If everyone will put a Q in their tweets if you are asking John a
question, it will help him pick them out. Thanks. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:33 am TrueFactBarFact @anniewood, rules are made by the rule makers for their own benefit.
I try not to follow rules like that. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:33 am OfficeHooky I was there for John while back at #scriptchat and can't for tonight #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:33 am TrueFactBarFact Jamie: do you mean gross as in disgusting or as in large? #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:33 am thewasif #tvwriterchat Taking a break from @GrayJones interview of
@truefactbarfact to join the chat! Howdy peeps!
2012-02-20 2:34 am TrueFactBarFact Gray: very much in favor of pilots. When you're done, you have some
intellectual property, whcih you don't with specs.n #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:34 am Jamie_LD @TrueFactBarFact Both? #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:34 am GrayJones Q: I've heard some show runners/agents still ask for spec eps. Will it
hurt you to have only pilots? #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:35 am TrueFactBarFact same answer: break your taboos. Disregard the voice saying "too
much" or "too disgusting" or "too anything." GO TOO FAR! #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:35 am TrueFactBarFact Gray, you may need both, but open with the pilot. It shows you have
original thought. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:35 am JonFour Stepping into #tvwriterchat. For the first time in a little while.
2012-02-20 2:36 am ElectricianPlus @JonFour Welcome back!!! #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:36 am GrayJones @TrueFactBarFact thanks! Finding pilots are so much more exciting
to write. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:36 am TrueFactBarFact Here's news: I just got a nibble from Sweden, of all places, on my
web-based sitcom. Funny ol' world. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:37 am zacsanford2 @truefactbarfact Q: With the dwindling size of the writers room, what
do you feel is the best way to get that 1st staff gig? #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:37 am TrueFactBarFact And as you know, I just returned from Bulgaria, where I
recruited/trained writers for their version of Married w/Children. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:37 am anniewood @TrueFactBarFact Q: how did you get your first TV writing gig? #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:37 am OfficeHooky @TrueFactBarFact Good to know all fresh, original material in
SITCOM. Am sitting here with my copy of Comic Toolbox. Sign it? #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:37 am SarahAlexis4 @TrueFactBarFact Q: How do you go about creating characters that
will provide plenty of conflict/comedy to sustain a series? #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:37 am TrueFactBarFact Wow, Zac, big question. Answer A) keep writing great new scripts, B)
keep banging your head against the phone. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:38 am JonFour @ElectricianPlus Thanks! Glad to be back :). #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:38 am TrueFactBarFact Annie: wrote a bunch of scripts and worked the phones relentlessly. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:38 am Jamie_LD @JonFour Hi #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:38 am thewasif @TrueFactBarFact Haven't read ur books YET, but heard there r only
10 joke types 4 tv (rule of 3s, non sequitur, etc.) agree?n #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:38 am TrueFactBarFact Sarah: think lines of conflict. Invent a character, then ask "who can
give this character the worst possible time?" #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:39 am Jamie_LD RT @TrueFactBarFact: Annie: wrote a bunch of scripts and worked
the phones relentlessly. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:39 am Jamie_LD @TrueFactBarFact I love this answer. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:39 am TrueFactBarFact thewasif: You can probably find a home for any joke within ten
categories. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:40 am anniewood @TrueFactBarFact Q: so, you didn't have rep before you got your first
gig? when/how did you get your first manager/agent? #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:40 am ElectricianPlus Carry your characters around with you during the day. Imagine how
they deal with the things that happen to you. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:40 am TrueFactBarFact thewasif: "But if you try to pigeonhole everything, all you'll end up with
is a bunch of squished pigeons." #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:41 am TrueFactBarFact Anniewood: had an agent, but still had to do all the leg work myself.
As it was so it is and ever shall be, I'm afraid. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:41 am anniewood @TrueFactBarFact save the pigeons! no, not really. they're pretty
annoying. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:42 am zacsanford2 Awesome. RT @TrueFactBarFact "But if you try to pigeonhole
everything, all you'll end up with is a bunch of squished pigeons." #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:42 am Jamie_LD @TrueFactBarFact Q: Any best advice for those wanting to write a
spec pilot? #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:42 am TrueFactBarFact Anniewood: All the agent gave me was a patina of credibility. It got
people to accept my calls. I still had to sell myself #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:42 am anniewood @TrueFactBarFact ah, yes, same in the world of acting. :/ #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:42 am OfficeHooky @TrueFactBarFact Q.) Can you elaborate on intellectual property you
are 'left with' for an original pilot opposed to spec? #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:42 am GrayJones Joh: BTW, in Comic Toolbox, loved your relentless idea creation.
Really came through that quantity begets quality. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:42 am Jamie_LD @anniewood @TrueFactBarFact Agent TAKE calls, writers MAKE
calls. lol #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:42 am thewasif RT @ElectricianPlus: Carry your characters around with you during
the day. Imagine how they deal with the things that happen to you. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:43 am TrueFactBarFact Anybody catch my recent stuntword: Twittourette's -- when you tweet
what you ought not tweet. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:43 am Jamie_LD Been there RT @TrueFactBarFact: Anybody catch my recent
stuntword: Twittourette's -- when you tweet what you ought not tweet.
#tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:43 am TrueFactBarFact Gray: Thx. My motto has always been "throw it out the window and
see if it lands." Funny, almost everything does. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:44 am anniewood @TrueFactBarFact Q: do you have a writing routine? when & how
many hours per day? #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:44 am TrueFactBarFact OfficeHooky: a spec might get you work, but will never earn you a
dime ('cause no one buys those). Originals can earn. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:45 am GCGeek Sorry I'm late. Evening everyone! Also, loving @TrueFactBarFact's
2012 stunt words! #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:45 am TrueFactBarFact Annie: paper in bed, walk the dog, answer emails, write till time to
walk the dog again, then write some more. Full days. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:45 am Jamie_LD @TrueFactBarFact So if you're trying to get an agent, write the
original spec, and then have other specs to back it up? #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:45 am TrueFactBarFact I didn't always love writing, but I love it now, so putting in a day at the
desk is no problem. It's where I want to be. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:46 am thewasif “@TrueFactBarFact: U can find a home 4 any joke within 10 categs. #
tvwriterchat”... Makes sense. Also, who r u calling? EPs? Networks?
Mgrs?
2012-02-20 2:46 am TrueFactBarFact GCGeek: Thanks re: stuntwords. Look for the ebook once I have
1000 #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:46 am anniewood @TrueFactBarFact wow. fan freakin' tastic. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:46 am Jamie_LD @TrueFactBarFact So when you didn't love writing, what did you do
to keep yourself writing? Other than write. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:46 am TrueFactBarFact Jamie: Exactly. No one launches their career off one spec. You need
to write many. Besides, "quantity breeds quality." #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:46 am SarahAlexis4 @TrueFactBarFact Q: Any tips for creating strong jokes out of story?
Creating solid set-ups? #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:47 am TrueFactBarFact All: even if you don't love writing now, eventually you will. Over time,
fear falls away and all that's left is bliss. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:47 am anniewood @TrueFactBarFact Q: when you first started out, how many scripts
had you written before you started making those calls? #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:47 am TrueFactBarFact Don't forget: the brain rewards creativity with endorphins. No wonder
we get high when we write, right? #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:48 am TrueFactBarFact SarahA: Strong jokes come out of character. Give characters strong
comic perspectives & filter reality through that. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:48 am GCGeek @TrueFactBarFact I like that! Bliss is good. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:48 am anniewood @TrueFactBarFact YES! #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:48 am TrueFactBarFact Annie: probably 2 or 3. I was naive. I thought 1 would be enough but
wiser people taught me otherwise. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:49 am anniewood RT @TrueFactBarFact: Dont forget: the brain rewards creativity with
endorphins. No wonder we get high when we write, right? #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:49 am TrueFactBarFact Thewasif: I'm calling anyone I think I can get to read me. Don't care
who they are. I want my words in front of eyeballs. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:49 am JonFour @TrueFactBarFact Creativity triggers endorphins? How did I not
know that? That's awesome. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:50 am TrueFactBarFact Jamie: when i didn't love writing i wrote anyhow. I couldn't not. didn't
love it, yet was heavily addicted. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:50 am Jamie_LD @TrueFactBarFact I find that when I have the time, I don't want to
write. When I'm working 70 hours, I crave it. Go figure. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:50 am anniewood @TrueFactBarFact i feel like more is better. Q:how many pros did you
have read your first script 4feedback b4 u sent it out? #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:50 am TrueFactBarFact JonFour: Of course it does. Otherwise we'd still be living in trees
wondering where our next banana was coming from. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:51 am TrueFactBarFact And now a word from our sponsor. :) http://t.co/t6oFcV9Z #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:51 am TrueFactBarFact annie: more is better, but don't hide your light under a bushel. The
words are worthless if they're not getting read. More... #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:52 am TrueFactBarFact Annie: you need people who can "read without prejudice" give you
great feedback and not "burn" a potential lead. More... #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:52 am thewasif “@TrueFactBarFact: I'm calling anyone I think I can get 2 read me.I
want my words in front of eyeballs. #tvwriterchat”... Awesome. Thx,
John
2012-02-20 2:52 am Jamie_LD If you get LITTLE BOOK OF SITCOM from @TrueFactBarFact for ur
#kindle you can listen to it over and over when you work/drive...#
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:52 am TrueFactBarFact Annie: Man, it's hard to explain in 140 characters. Anyone who wants
more info can email me at jvx@vorza.com #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:53 am TrueFactBarFact Jamie: Bar fact I'm afraid. It's not yet available in audio, tho several of
my novels are (narrated by me - so awesome) #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:54 am Jamie_LD @TrueFactBarFact But it is text to speech enabled, so you can listen
to the monotone man/woman read it. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:54 am anniewood @TrueFactBarFact i like your word from the sponsor bit. it worked! :)
#tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:54 am ElectricianPlus Discovered the "endorphins" at 1st open mic night. It got bigger when
I 1st heard someone do material I wrote. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:55 am TrueFactBarFact Writers are afraid. We're afraid to promote, afraid to get read, afraid to
fail. Gotta get over that. I say FAIL BIG! #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:55 am thewasif #tvwriterchat Hey @TrueFactBarFact so how do u bounce from
medium 2 medium, project 2 project? Just write what ur feeling that
day?
2012-02-20 2:55 am TrueFactBarFact annie: thank you. See? We must not be afraid to promote. To be a
writer in the 21st century is to be an entrepreneur. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:55 am Jamie_LD RT @TrueFactBarFact: Writers are afraid.... to promote, ...to get read,
afraid to fail. Gotta get over that. I say FAIL BIG! #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:56 am TrueFactBarFact Jamie, that is AWESOME. I'll have to try that and see how I sound.
"Urk...be...funny...now..." #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:56 am OfficeHooky Q.) As a primary author of oft-cited books on how to write/be funny,
what were the books that you learned from? #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:56 am Jamie_LD @TrueFactBarFact Any advice on the multicam script? I struggle with
the set up/pay off of the jokes. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:56 am TrueFactBarFact thewasif: "Go off in all directions at once. You're bound to arrive
somewhere sometime." More... #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:56 am GCGeek Just ordered for my 2nd Kindle arriving Friday:) RT
@TrueFactBarFact: And now a word from our sponsor. :)
http://t.co/p7vqvuD1 #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:56 am ElectricianPlus Tip: Make friends with local comedians. Practice writing funny daily.
See your material performed. Watch the reaction. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:57 am TrueFactBarFact Thewasif: I've always been a fan of versatility. Besides, I have a
restless mind. And wait till you see my next novel. More... #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:57 am TrueFactBarFact A coming of age story set in 1969 -- at right angles to everything I've
ever written. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:57 am anniewood @TrueFactBarFact i was going to respond to you with a link to my
book but tweetchat said it was too long. :) #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:58 am GCGeek @ElectricianPlus That sounds awesome, Steve! I'd love to write
material for some local comics. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:58 am TrueFactBarFact officehooky: Koestler's ACT OF CREATION, plus CONCEPTUAL
BLOCKBUSTING and the CREATIVE WHACK PACK #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:58 am Mindy_Leana RT @TrueFactBarFact: Writers are afraid. We're afraid to promote,
afraid to get read, afraid to fail. Gotta get over that. I say FAIL BIG! #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 2:58 am thewasif “@TrueFactBarFact: Writers are afraid to fail. I say FAIL BIG! #
tvwriterchat”... Channeling ur RFK there. "must fail gr8ly 2 succeed
gr8tly"
2012-02-20 2:59 am TrueFactBarFact Jamie: Multicam. Treat multicam as a stage play. The joke must be
seen/heard in order to work. If it's too complicated, change #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:00 am OfficeHooky Fact: Smiling Releases Endorphins, Natural Pain Killers and
Serotonin. Sit at desk for several minutes, smile like a goof. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:00 am GrayJones RT @OfficeHooky: Fact: Smiling Releases Endorphins, Natural Pain
Killers and Serotonin. Sit at desk for several minutes, smile like a
goof. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:00 am TrueFactBarFact Jamie: there's always more than one way to sell a joke. find the
cleanest, clearest, and CHEAPEST #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:01 am TrueFactBarFact Not sure most writers recognize the "apprenticeship" aspect. We must
invest years just mastering our craft. More... #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:01 am anniewood @TrueFactBarFact what was it like in the writer's room for married
with children? p.s. i was in acting class w/faustino. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:01 am Jamie_LD @TrueFactBarFact Thanks. I've been writing single cam, but my
latest project begs to be mulit cam #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:01 am ElectricianPlus @OfficeHooky Then try it w/o pants. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:01 am TrueFactBarFact The good news is we're not responsible for results while we're
learning. This reduces expectation, and thus fear. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:02 am TrueFactBarFact SusieQ are you lurking? #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:02 am SarahAlexis4 @TrueFactBarFact Q: What lessons have you learned from your
stints working on tv shows in other countries? #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:02 am TrueFactBarFact Jamie: multicam is much easier. You don't have to call shots. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:02 am OfficeHooky @TrueFactBarFact Koestler? "Darkness at Noon" Arthur Koestler? #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:03 am TrueFactBarFact Sarah: many lessons. Mostly learned how to find the funny even if I
didn't know the culture. More... #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:03 am zacsanford2 @TrueFactBarFact Q: How should one decide whether to write their
comedy pilot as a single or multi cam? #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:03 am TrueFactBarFact Learned that television is a mirror of culture. No one wants to see
anything as much as they want to see themselves on TV. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:04 am TrueFactBarFact Learned that the Russians are a massive pain in the butt (watch
EXPORTING RAYMOND) for corroboration. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:04 am anniewood @TrueFactBarFact Q: do you always outline? always? #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:04 am TrueFactBarFact Hook: Yes, that Koestler. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:04 am anniewood @TrueFactBarFact did you see #ExportingRaymond? love it. on HBO
now. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:04 am OfficeHooky Books to read! RT @TrueFactBarFact: Koestlers ACT OF
CREATION, plus CONCEPTUAL BLOCKBUSTING and the
CREATIVE WHACK PACK #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:04 am TrueFactBarFact zac: the material dictates. The more complex and "adult" it is, the
more likely to be single cam. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:05 am anniewood @TrueFactBarFact oops. last tweet redundant. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:05 am TrueFactBarFact annie: I always outline scripts, never outline novels. I hate outlining
like a cat hates baths, but it's necessary. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:05 am SarahAlexis4 @TrueFactBarFact lol I was just going to watch that recently! Think
it's on HBO. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:05 am TrueFactBarFact annie: I'm IN Exporting Raymond (for three seconds in a party scene).
It's very accurate. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:05 am Jamie_LD Interesting RT @TrueFactBarFact: zac: material dictates. The more
complex and "adult" it is, the more likely to be single cam. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:05 am zacsanford2 @TrueFactBarFact Gracias. This development season has seen
more multicams than singles get picked up. Or so it seems. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:06 am anniewood @TrueFactBarFact damn it to heckfire. fine. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:06 am SarahAlexis4 @anniewood now it's my tweet that's redundant lol #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:06 am TrueFactBarFact watch it. look for me in the party scene on the trolly car at the end. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:06 am anniewood @TrueFactBarFact i shall rewatch #ExportingRaymond and watch
your scene on a loop! #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:06 am TrueFactBarFact zac: development season means nothing. trends mean nothing.
markets mean nothing. write from your heart and gut. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:07 am anniewood @SarahAlexis4 we r typin as fast as we can! :) #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:07 am anniewood @TrueFactBarFact you are very retweetable. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:07 am zacsanford2 RT @TrueFactBarFact development season means nothing. trends
mean nothing. markets mean nothing. write from your heart & gut. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:08 am TrueFactBarFact On my desk right now a romantic comedy called APOSTROPHE
CATASTROPHE. Tagline: "Somethings' Gone Wrong." #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:08 am anniewood RT development season means nothing. trends mean nothing.
markets mean nothing. write from your heart and gut. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:08 am ALakerfan78 RT @OfficeHooky: Fact: Smiling Releases Endorphins, Natural Pain
Killers and Serotonin. Sit at desk for several minutes, smile like a
goof. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:08 am OfficeHooky @TrueFactBarFact *smiles, releases endorphins* My respect for
Koestler (and you) just took a sudden, wicked turn #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:08 am TrueFactBarFact Meant to say "what I'm writing now." #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:09 am TrueFactBarFact Best Hollywood advice I ever got. "Keep giving them you until you is
what they want." I'm a poster child for the concept. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:09 am JonFour @TrueFactBarFact @zacsanford2 I don't think about single/multicam
when I write. I leave that to producers. Am I wrong in that? #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:10 am anniewood @TrueFactBarFact Q: thoughts about writing teams? me&the wasif
are a future team, is it easier to get work as a team? #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:10 am Jamie_LD RT @TrueFactBarFact: Best Hollywood advice I ever got. "Keep
giving them you until you is what they want." I'm a poster child. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:10 am TrueFactBarFact Other best advice: "Changing agents is like changing deck chairs on
the Titanic -- yet we live in hope." #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:10 am anniewood @TrueFactBarFact seriously, i've never retweeted this much. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:10 am TrueFactBarFact annie, so sweet. I've never been called retweetable before. (That
said, I do aim to pith.) #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:11 am zacsanford2 @JonFour Well there is a different format for multicam vs single.
That's the only reason to think about it as you write. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:11 am TVWriterChat @anniewood He's great, isn't he? So glad to have him as our guest.
@TrueFactBarFact #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:11 am TrueFactBarFact annie: writing team is HUGE subject. you don't get to be sole captain
of ship, but you do get more productivity. More... #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:11 am Rainbow892 RT @OfficeHooky: Fact: Smiling Releases Endorphins, Natural Pain
Killers and Serotonin. Sit at desk for several minutes, smile like a
goof. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:11 am TrueFactBarFact Tip: try to find a partner who works harder than you -- and be that
partner too #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:11 am thewasif RT @TrueFactBarFact: Best Hollywood advice I ever got. "Keep
giving them you until you is what they want." I'm a poster child for the
concept. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:12 am anniewood @TVWriterChat oh hi, TVWriterChat! yes, thank you. i love u. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:12 am angelacorpus RT @OfficeHooky: Fact: Smiling Releases Endorphins, Natural Pain
Killers and Serotonin. Sit at desk for several minutes, smile like a
goof. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:13 am TrueFactBarFact It's not easier or harder to get work with a partner. It's all in the quality
of the work. Less money though. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:13 am Jamie_LD Sorry, Zac. RT @TrueFactBarFact: Tip: try to find a partner who
works harder than you -- and be that partner too #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:14 am anniewood @TrueFactBarFact the thing about teams -i write fast, like
crazy-fast.can i be my own solo writer & a "team" or must i choose? #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:14 am GrayJones 15 minutes left! Great chat so far w/ @TrueFactBarFact. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:14 am Jamie_LD Thanks. (@TVWriterChat ) RT @anniewood: @TVWriterChat oh hi,
TVWriterChat! yes, thank you. i love u. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:14 am TrueFactBarFact Tip: have more than one project going at once. When you're burned
out on one, you still have useful brain for the other. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:14 am anniewood @thewasif i'm talking about you right in front of your face! hi wasif. :) #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:15 am zacsanford2 Hate to leave early, but dinner is calling me. Thanks
@TrueFactBarFact for all the great advice. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:15 am GrayJones Q: what are the best places to go for new ideas? #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:15 am TrueFactBarFact I find 140 characters so FRUSTRATING. We have so much to talk
about. Wish I could take u all out for milk & cookies. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:15 am zacsanford2 #scriptchat tweetup in LA at #FormosaCafe on Thursday at 8 p.m.
Hope to meet some of you people there. Come and join us! #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:15 am SarahAlexis4 @TrueFactBarFact Yes, I find stacking projects helps me be more
productive #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:16 am TrueFactBarFact welcome, zac. Remember: if you're doing something and you can't
stop doing it, KEEP ON DOING IT! #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:16 am SarahAlexis4 @zacsanford2 Bye, Zac. Have a good one. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:16 am anniewood @TVWriterChat this is fun! if school was this much fun, i might have
gone. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:16 am Jamie_LD @TrueFactBarFact be careful what you wish for! #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:16 am thewasif “@zacsanford2: Hate to leave early, but dinner is calling me. #
tvwriterchat”... Hey Zac, is there a mixer on Thurs at Formosa?
2012-02-20 3:17 am TrueFactBarFact Gray: I go to non-fiction for new ideas. Esp. cutting edge mags on
science and technology. Grist for the mill. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:17 am anniewood @SarahAlexis4 same here. i always have at least two. it keeps me
happy and moving forward. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:17 am GCGeek Post pics! RT @zacsanford2: #scriptchat tweetup in LA at
#FormosaCafe on Thur at 8 p.m. Hope to meet some of you people
there. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:17 am SarahAlexis4 @TrueFactBarFact Q: Is there anything in particular that stands out to
you as a sign of a strong script when reading? #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:17 am GrayJones @TrueFactBarFact thanks! #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:17 am zacsanford2 @thewasif Yep... Formosa at 8 p.m. until who knows when... Look for
me. I'm the chubby bearded guy. :) #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:17 am TrueFactBarFact Annie: any teacher who doesn't entertain is just a waste of space.
How can anyone learn if they're not engaged? #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:17 am sdarancette RT @zacsanford2: @thewasif Yep... Formosa at 8 p.m. until who
knows when... Look for me. I'm the chubby bearded guy. :) #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:18 am JasmineMcAtee2 I've been lurking tonight - trying to watch a show airing that I worked
on - but so much good information has been posted! #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:18 am TrueFactBarFact sarah: I open the (comedy) script to any page at random and conduct
the following test, looking for 3 things. More... #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:18 am JasmineMcAtee2 @zacsanford2 See you Thursday! #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:18 am OfficeHooky Q.) Do you read original material? Or just create? #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:18 am TrueFactBarFact 1) a laugh (or good solid smile) 2) a sense of the story 3) a reason to
turn the page. If I don't get those things... #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:18 am anniewood @sdarancette i wanna go but i have a WGA event that night. tweet
me for the next one though. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:19 am TrueFactBarFact I don't read the rest. The script has to rock on every page. It's a tough
test, but reliable. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:20 am TrueFactBarFact Office: I read some fiction in my genre, but mostly, for pleasure, I read
non-fiction. Just my taste. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:20 am GCGeek I need to tattoo this. RT @TrueFactBarFact: The script has to rock on
every page. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:20 am thewasif “@zacsanford2: Formosa at 8. Look for me. I'm the chubby bearded
guy. :) #tvwriterchat” ... I'll b there. & i'm exactly like my twit pic ;)
2012-02-20 3:21 am TrueFactBarFact sarah: what stands out in a great script is evidence that the author
loves the characters. You can't fake that. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:21 am SarahAlexis4 @TrueFactBarFact Thanks! That sounds like a great way to assess a
script to see if it's working. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:21 am TrueFactBarFact GCG: Took me a long time to get that. I thought "good enough" was
good enough, but it ain't. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:21 am anniewood @thewasif it's true. he is. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:22 am Jamie_LD RT @TrueFactBarFact: GCG: Took me a long time to get that. I
thought "good enough" was good enough, but it ain't. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:22 am TrueFactBarFact sarah: and leaves you nowhere to hide from the hard truth. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:22 am OfficeHooky Q.) Have to ask: you're working with Bulgarian writers... for Bulgarian
"Married: with Children"?? Because that seems gold. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:23 am TrueFactBarFact Hey community, I wonder if you all know how blessed you are. The
fact that your life allows you to write proves it. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:23 am TrueFactBarFact Office: Bulgarian writers, yes. Wedding Married... humor and stories
with Bulgarian cultural context and jokes. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:24 am anniewood @TrueFactBarFact yes. and amen to that. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:24 am TrueFactBarFact Office: and it is gold. I learn so much when I parachute into these
strange and unexpected places. More... #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:24 am TrueFactBarFact my consulting business model: I exchange information for experience
and money. Not a bad gig, not bad at all. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:25 am TrueFactBarFact Thanks to everyone who joined my twitterstream tonight. I shall try to
keep you amused w/stuntwords and truefactbarfact. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:25 am sdarancette @TrueFactBarFact My life doesn't allow for me to write at all, I just
push through by sheer will. #tvwriterchat. And hello to all!
2012-02-20 3:26 am TrueFactBarFact This chat has been a presentation of http://t.co/t6oFcV9Z (folks,
never, ever, ever stop selling. :) ) #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:26 am TrueFactBarFact sdarancette: that's money. if you don't have time to write and still find
time to write, you are unstoppable. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:26 am anniewood @TrueFactBarFact true dat. thanks! this was great! #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:27 am ElectricianPlus RT @TrueFactBarFact: sdarancette: that's money. if you don't have
time to write and still find time to write, you are unstoppable. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:27 am sdarancette @TrueFactBarFact Thank you, sir. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:27 am Jamie_LD @TrueFactBarFact John, thanks so much for joining us tonight. Your
lightning fast typing makes for a GREAT chat.#tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:27 am TrueFactBarFact and seriously, if you have follow-up Qs, my door is always open.
Contact me via http://t.co/SOmGOkEY. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:28 am GrayJones .@TrueFactBarFact Awesome chat! Thanks so much! And my next
click will be to order your book for my Kindle app. ;-) #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:28 am TrueFactBarFact Jamie: I type fast because HS shop classes were full of boys but
typing class was full of girls. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:29 am GrayJones RT @TVWriterChat: don't forget to buy @TrueFactBarFact John
Vorhaus's book http://t.co/swteXD1r #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:29 am Jamie_LD @TrueFactBarFact Smart man/boy, both. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:29 am SarahAlexis4 @TrueFactBarFact Thanks for being our guest and providing some
great insight! #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:29 am GCGeek Thank you @Jamie_LD for moderating and thank you
@TrueFactBarFact for taking an hour to share, inspire and amuse. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:29 am OfficeHooky @TrueFactBarFact Many, many thanks John. Look forward to
reading SITCOM #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:30 am TrueFactBarFact I'm out, peeps. Closing benediction: "This I believe above all other
things, a man shall find goodness if goodness he brings." #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:30 am Jamie_LD Okay peeps, the restaurant is back open, and I'm exhausted. So glad
I could skip out in time to join #tvwriterchat tonight.
2012-02-20 3:30 am GrayJones Reminder again that John Vorhaus @TrueFactBarFact had a great
podcast interview recently: http://t.co/Wjpr0gTR #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:31 am Jamie_LD . @GCGeek Thanks for joining us. We can't have the chat without
you! #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:31 am GCGeek RT @GrayJones: Reminder again that John Vorhaus
@TrueFactBarFact had a great podcast interview recently:
http://t.co/qw6oJXQX #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:31 am GrayJones Thanks to all for joining the chat -- or lurking! ;-) #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:32 am badscriptadvice Did I miss an opportunity to ply you with my maudlin RomCom
advice? It's extra maudlin with a side of cloying. #tvwriterchat
#scriptchat
2012-02-20 3:32 am GCGeek @Jamie_LD *blush* thanks :-) #tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:34 am OfficeHooky Gray's excellent John Vorhaus podcast RT @GrayJones: John
Vorhaus (@TrueFactBarFact) podcast interview http://t.co/tAl3Fb2D #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-20 3:36 am TVWriterChat We do this just for you! Thanks for stopping by. RT @GrayJones:
Thanks to all for joining the chat -- or lurking! ;-) #tvwriterchat

Live Tweeting from Writer's Boot Camp with Lynn Dickinson

Thanks so much to Lynn Dickinson (Twitter name: @LifesizeLD ) for offering is live tweeting from the Writer's Boot Camp. Lynn ROCKS!

2012-02-15 4:26 pm LMDLive I'm at Writer's Boot Camp now. http://t.co/Ydr3KolP #tvwriterchat
#Scriptchat #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 4:26 pm LifesizeLD I'm at Writer's Boot Camp now. http://t.co/rI6MgshW #tvwriterchat
#Scriptchat #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 4:28 pm LMDLive I'll be live tweeting this event http://t.co/Ydr3KolP - come join in! #
WBCBkfst #tvwriterchat #amwriting
2012-02-15 4:30 pm LifesizeLD The place is packed for this Larkin-Goldstein event. Everyone is
having a great breakfast & making new friends. #WBCBkfst
#TVWriterchat
2012-02-15 4:30 pm LMDLive Follow me at @LifesizeLD to read the live chat from Writer's Boot
Camp this morning. http://t.co/Ydr3KolP #WBCBkfst #TVWriterchat
2012-02-15 4:36 pm LMDLive Larkin-Goldstein currently have over a dozen scripted & reality
projects in production &/or development. #WBCBkfst #TVWriterchat
2012-02-15 4:36 pm LifesizeLD Larkin-Goldstein currently have over a dozen scripted & reality
projects in production &/or development. #WBCBkfst #TVWriterchat
2012-02-15 4:36 pm LifesizeLD They're introducing the speakers now... #WBCBkfst #TVWriterchat
2012-02-15 4:39 pm LifesizeLD Wow, this event is packed! http://t.co/rI6MgshW #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 4:43 pm LifesizeLD Larkin and Goldstein keep a lot of projects in the pipeline bc it can
take years for some projects to gestate. #WBCBkfst #TVWriterchat
2012-02-15 4:46 pm LifesizeLD The model for international distribution is a deficit financing one. Sony
went straight to 13 episodes (no pilot) for PARADISE. #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 4:46 pm LifesizeLD To see all of this event's tweets http://t.co/rI6MgshW follow me or #
WBCBkfst . I'll use #TVWriterchat when there is space in the tweet.
2012-02-15 4:47 pm LifesizeLD The model of paying a lot for a pilot to determine whether the show
will work, is dwindling. It's too big an investment. #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 4:48 pm LifesizeLD Sony now sends scripts to multiple international quadrants, then goes
straight to an order of 13 episodes - no pilot. #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 4:49 pm LifesizeLD Diverse casting is becoming the norm to ensure successful
international distribution. An American, a Brit, an Italian, etc.. #
WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 4:50 pm LifesizeLD Projects come in from all over the place. Executive's short lists,
speech writers, feature writers, great specs. It's all timing. #
WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 4:51 pm LifesizeLD Anybody with a good idea and the time to write the spec can make it
happen for themselves. #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 4:51 pm LifesizeLD Writing immediately shows your art form and communicates your
ideas. #WBCBkfst #TVWriterchat
2012-02-15 4:52 pm LifesizeLD Don't go out with your first and only great spec script - have at least
three good ones. Write all the time! #WBCBkfst #TVWriterchat
2012-02-15 4:54 pm LifesizeLD Larkin-Goldstein get behind *ideas* - a book, an article, a script, a
play, if it's a great idea they'll develop it for TV. #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 4:55 pm LifesizeLD Don't write to "the market" - write what you care about and that
passion will show through as a great spec. #WBCBkfst #TVwriterchat
2012-02-15 4:56 pm LifesizeLD The Mad Men story is gr8! Started as a writing sample spec & AMC
loved it so much they killed the show they planned & made M.M.! #
WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 4:57 pm LifesizeLD Projects get altered in development as they're submitted to different
networks. #WBCBkfst #TVWriterchat
2012-02-15 4:58 pm LifesizeLD From every POV - TV is a numbers game designed to sell soap (and
other stuff). It's a BUSINESS that sells ADS. #WBCBkfst
#TVWriterchat
2012-02-15 4:59 pm LifesizeLD A strong, well-developed character can be altered for each network
that project is presented to. #WBCBkfst #TVWriterchat
2012-02-15 5:00 pm LifesizeLD They want to keep selling projects to networks - so they study the
mandate/feel/demographics of each network & tailor projects. #
WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 5:01 pm LifesizeLD I'm live tweeting from this event http://t.co/rI6MgshW follow me or #
WBCBkfst . I'll use #TVWriterchat when there is space in the tweet.
2012-02-15 5:02 pm LifesizeLD Question for every project: "How can we get this to the right network
& draw the most eyeballs?" #TVWriterchat #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 5:03 pm LifesizeLD Before you submit your TV Project - know what network it's targeted
to, read their scripts, & write in their tone & style. #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 5:06 pm LifesizeLD Do your homework. Align with someone who has done it before
(another writer, or a producer) to open that first door. #WBCBkfst
#TVwriterchat
2012-02-15 5:07 pm LifesizeLD If you can align with someone they know (even a staff writer) it helps -
because it's associated with someone they know. #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 5:07 pm LifesizeLD Ultimately, a great spec script WILL get to the person who can do
something with it. #WBCBkfst #TVwriterchat
2012-02-15 5:09 pm LifesizeLD The hard part isn't getting through the door - the hard part is creating
a GREAT spec script that will open doors. #WBCBkfst #TVWriterchat
2012-02-15 5:11 pm LifesizeLD There R dozens of execs at each network. They have a point person
at each network, & that person runs projects within the system. #
WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 5:11 pm LifesizeLD When they find a great idea, they're on the phone pitching it even
before it's developed and they'll do overnights to develop it! #
WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 5:13 pm LifesizeLD Twitter is quiet today. Is anybody tuned it this morning & reading
these event tweets? #WBCBkfst #TVWriterchat
2012-02-15 5:13 pm LifesizeLD They have sold projects they've gotten excited about after only
reading the first 20 pages... #WBCBkfst #TVWriterchat
2012-02-15 5:14 pm LifesizeLD But they've also spent years developing ideas before selling them. It
goes both ways. #WBCBkfst #TVWriterchat
2012-02-15 5:16 pm LifesizeLD The show PARADISE took three years to "gestate" but it's going
international with Sony now. #WBCBkfst #TVWriterchat
2012-02-15 5:18 pm LifesizeLD Sony doesn't need a U.S. counterpart to run with international
distribution. American producers can make a show never seen here. #
WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 5:18 pm LifesizeLD But oddly, once they run internationally with a project, the same
networks who rejected it here, often snap it up then. #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 5:20 pm LifesizeLD Series can take years to develop and sell. A TV Movie can be pitched,
written and sold within a few months. #WBCBkfst #TVWRiterchat
2012-02-15 5:20 pm LifesizeLD TV Movies are a great way for new writers to break in. The writer's
name doesn't matter, just the project. They LIKE specs in TV. #
WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 5:21 pm LifesizeLD TV networks like to find the perfect spec, because it saves them the
costs of development. TV needs a lot of quick content! #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 5:23 pm LifesizeLD Larkin and Goldstein are wide open to fresh, newbie, baby writers -
even those in their forties and fifties and beyond! #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 5:24 pm LifesizeLD It's 100% about the material, not who the writer is or what they've
done. #WBCBkfst #TVWriterchat
2012-02-15 5:24 pm princess_scribe #Follow @LifesizeLD for her live #WBCBkfst tweets.
2012-02-15 5:25 pm LifesizeLD IF you can write a phenomenal Christmas TV movie (or other holiday)
- contact them!! #WBCBkfst #TVWRiterchat
2012-02-15 5:26 pm LifesizeLD Movies of the Week (MOW's) have an 8 act structure, w/a cliff hanger
on each act break. Consider developing your script as a MOW. #
WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 5:27 pm LifesizeLD HBO, Lifetime, Hallmark, Showtime, Disney, and more all make
original TV Movies. It's a GREAT market for emerging writers. #
WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 5:27 pm LifesizeLD They don't even call them "Television Movies" anymore. They're really
"Features for Television." #WBCBkfst #TVWriterchat
2012-02-15 5:29 pm LifesizeLD High concepts are terrific AND most television is character driven.
Can you do both? #WBCBkfst #TVWriterchat
2012-02-15 5:29 pm LifesizeLD You can be a GREAT writer, but you *MUST* be good in a room, too.
Develop that skill! EVERY WRITER MUST LEARN TO PITCH in TV.
#WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 5:31 pm LifesizeLD An amazing script can DIE in a meeting if the writer can't pitch.
LEARN THIS SKILL! Entertain the exec. Learn the *entire* pitch. #
WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 5:31 pm CityofAngelle RT @LifesizeLD: Movies of the Week (MOW's) have an 8 act
structure, w/a cliff hanger on each act break. Consider developing
your script as a MOW. #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 5:31 pm CityofAngelle RT @LifesizeLD: HBO, Lifetime, Hallmark, Showtime, Disney, and
more all make original TV Movies. It's a GREAT market for emerging
writers. #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 5:31 pm CityofAngelle RT @LifesizeLD: They don't even call them "Television Movies"
anymore. They're really "Features for Television." #WBCBkfst
#TVWriterchat
2012-02-15 5:31 pm LifesizeLD Preparing and learning your pitch can take weeks - but DO it! (If you
want execs to get excited about your projects.) #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 5:32 pm LifesizeLD If you know the material inside and out, the executive's questions
won't throw you when you're pitching. Be prepared! #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 5:34 pm LifesizeLD Be sure to know what the executive is expecting. You want to engage
them and tell them a good story. Entertain them. #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 5:35 pm LifesizeLD Start with a really strong logline. Get them excited about what you're
going to say. Then give a two minute version. #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 5:36 pm LifesizeLD Be prepared for a discussion. A pitch is not a monologue. Get them
engaged. They have to be able to sell it to their boss. #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 5:37 pm LifesizeLD They've had execs say they were going to "think about it" and then
call them before they even get to the elevator! Nice! #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 5:37 pm eyamie RT @princess_scribe: #Follow @LifesizeLD for her live #WBCBkfst
tweets.
2012-02-15 5:38 pm LifesizeLD Broadcast networks buy series at certain times of the year. Cable
tends to buy all year around. Know who you're writing for. #
WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 5:39 pm LifesizeLD I'm Live-Tweeting from the Business Breakfast with Larkin-Goldstein
Productions at Writer's Boot Camp. at #WBCBkfst. #TVwriterchat
2012-02-15 5:40 pm LifesizeLD TV is a great place for drama right now. TV is where drama (features
and series) gains the most audience and is done well. #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 5:41 pm eyamie RT @LifesizeLD: I'm Live-Tweeting from the Business Breakfast with
Larkin-Goldstein Productions at Writer's Boot Camp. at #WBCBkfst.
#TVwriterchat
2012-02-15 5:42 pm LifesizeLD If you have a script, don't *attach* anyone who you don't already know
is a superstar. Always ask, "How is this going to help?" #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 5:43 pm LifesizeLD Most networks don't want an actor attached - they want the idea with
the writer and maybe showrunner - but not the talent. #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 5:45 pm LifesizeLD They tie up the underlying rights to stories, articles, books, lives, all
the time. It's easy for them to just lock those in. #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 5:47 pm LifesizeLD Public domain projects can be done for free - but it doesn't hurt to
walk in the door with the rights to a book about the topic. #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 5:48 pm OfficeHooky RT @LifesizeLD: I'm live tweeting from this event
http://t.co/rI6MgshW follow me or #WBCBkfst . I'll use #TVWriterchat
when there is space in the tweet.
2012-02-15 5:48 pm LifesizeLD Holding the rights to a story gives U the best advantage in the world.
Look locally for material. A free, 2-page option can do it. #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 5:50 pm LifesizeLD Find your passion for the project. If you have any of the rights tied up,
it elevates you from baby-writer to pro. #WBCBkfst #TVWriterchat
2012-02-15 5:51 pm LifesizeLD If you find a local person/story w/a great angle, call them. They may
grant you the rights! You've got nothing to lose by asking. #
WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 5:52 pm LifesizeLD Reality TV is still the least expensive way for young cable networks to
snag eyeballs and make money. It's doing well. #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 5:55 pm LifesizeLD If U've got a gr8 idea 4 a show (reality or otherwise) prepare &
present! TV needs U! Present yourself as a pro & you'll be heard. #
WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 5:56 pm LifesizeLD They've moved into the Q&A portion of the event. #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 5:57 pm LifesizeLD Q. What is the process for submissions? A. Every company is
different. Learn them. Larkin-Goldstein like referrals first. #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 5:58 pm Amazon_Studios RT @LifesizeLD: HBO, Lifetime, Hallmark, Showtime, Disney, and
more all make original TV Movies. It's a GREAT market for emerging
writers. #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 5:59 pm storyboardtv Great live tweeting of the #WBCBkfst by @LifesizeLD. 140 character
nuggets of TV writing/pitching wisdom. Check it out!
2012-02-15 5:59 pm LifesizeLD Q. Do you like pitches to include a well produced trailer? #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 5:59 pm JABwriter RT @LifesizeLD: If you find a local person/story w/a great angle, call
them. They may grant you the rights! You've got nothing to lose by
asking. #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 6:00 pm LifesizeLD A. Depends on project. It helps if it is a REALLY unique concept. Not
with regular stuff. It's fun - but we don't need to have it. #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 6:01 pm cortneywrites RT @LifesizeLD: HBO, Lifetime, Hallmark, Showtime, Disney, and
more all make original TV Movies. It's a GREAT market for emerging
writers. #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 6:01 pm LifesizeLD Of course, a trailer can work against you, too - if it's not done well. So
it can go both ways. #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 6:02 pm LifesizeLD Sometimes people don't "pop" in front of the camera - even if they're
really charismatic in person. Test! #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 6:03 pm LifesizeLD Q. Opportunities for smaller audiences? A. Absolutely! Look at Netflix.
Whole new revenue models are emerging! #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 6:03 pm LifesizeLD There are a handful of subscription models emerging. #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 6:04 pm LifesizeLD Q. Do you work with writers on their pitch? A. Absolutely! Won't go
into a room with a writer until we're confident with them. #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 6:04 pm LifesizeLD Every writer has a different pitch style - but it has to be convincing and
confident BEFORE the meeting. #WBCBkfst #TVWriterchat
2012-02-15 6:07 pm msgoddessrises RT @LifesizeLD: Q. Do you work with writers on their pitch? A.
Absolutely! Won't go into a room with a writer until we're confident
with them. #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 6:07 pm LifesizeLD Q. What are your thoughts on non-traditional distributors (Netflix,
Hulu, Direct TV etc.). #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 6:08 pm LifesizeLD A. It's great! They're begin really smart. DirectTV especially has a
great model. Watch for original programming from Redbox too! #
WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 6:08 pm LifesizeLD Opportunities abound for writers in television today. #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 6:08 pm LifesizeLD And that's it for today's event! Thanks for tuning in!! #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 6:08 pm msgoddessrises RT @LifesizeLD: If U've got a gr8 idea 4 a show (reality or otherwise)
prepare & present! TV needs U! Present yourself as a pro & you'll be
heard. #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 6:11 pm msgoddessrises RT @LifesizeLD: Be sure you've got a body of work that proves your
ability before you start putting your proposals out there.
#TVWriterchat #WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 6:11 pm msgoddessrises RT @LifesizeLD: Reality TV is still the least expensive way for young
cable networks to snag eyeballs and make money. It's doing well. #
WBCBkfst
2012-02-15 6:13 pm msgoddessrises RT @LifesizeLD: I'm Live-Tweeting from the Business Breakfast with
Larkin-Goldstein Productions at Writer's Boot Camp. at #WBCBkfst.
#TVwriterchat
2012-02-15 11:47 pm emakvalencia RT @LifesizeLD: HBO, Lifetime, Hallmark, Showtime, Disney, and
more all make original TV Movies. It's a GREAT market for emerging
writers. #WBCBkfst

John Vorhaus - TV Writer & Comedian

February 19, 2012 TV Writer Chat Guest
John Vorhaus is best known as the author of The Comic Toolbox: How to be Funny Even if You’re Not.  This seminal book on writing comedy for television and film is now available in four languages, and continues to be a definitive source of information and inspiration for writers from Santa Monica to Scandinavia.
An international consultant in television and film script development, Vorhaus has worked for television networks, film schools, and production companies in 30 countries on four continents, including half-year stints in Romania and, God help him, Russia in winter. He has traveled regularly to Nicaragua, where he helped build a social-action drama designed to teach the young people of Nicaragua to “think for themselves and practice safe sex.”
Vorhaus’ own screenwriting credits include Married… with Children, Head of the Class, The Sentinel, The Flash and many overseas television shows and films, including the sitcoms House Arrest and Pretty, Sick and Twisted, and the movie Save Angel Hope.
In another corner of his ADD multiverse, he is the author of the six-volume Killer Poker series, plus miscellaneous other books on the subject, including the novel Under the Gun, a “how-to whodunit” set in the world of high stakes tournament poker. His other novels include The California Roll and its upcoming sequel, The Albuquerque Turkey.
Vorhaus is a graduate of Carnegie-Mellon University and a member of the Writers Guild of America.  He has taught writing at Northwestern University and the American Film Institute, and lectured for such disparate groups as Mensa and the New Jersey Romance Writers Association. His favorite sport is ultimate, his favorite game is poker, and his favorite color is plaid. He lives in Southern California in the company of his wife and an endless rota of dogs.

Transcript for February 12, 2012 - Discussion of American Horror Story Pilot

Nice discussion of American Horror Story pilot, and in the end, pilot writing in general.

Thanks to all how attended the chat.



2012-02-13 2:31 am Jamie_LD And it's time for chatting about American Horror Story. Anyone here?
#tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:32 am ElectricianPlus Yes ma'am. Back from hibernation. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:32 am Jamie_LD @ElectricianPlus Hey, we've missed you. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:33 am Jamie_LD @IngridElkner I read the pilot, then watched it, then read pilot again. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:33 am GCGeek @Jamie_LD Hi, Jamie, I'm here #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:33 am JohnTelesz Heren #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:33 am Jamie_LD @GCGeek *waves* How's the writing going? #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:33 am SarahAlexis4 @Jamie_LD hi! Here for a bit from my phone. Sry in advance for slow
responses or repeating. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:33 am ElectricianPlus I'm at a disadvantage...only reading...not seeing. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:34 am Jamie_LD @SarahAlexis4 Chat is really slow tonight because of the Grammy
Awards. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:34 am Jamie_LD @ElectricianPlus Not really at a disadvantage. The pilot was very
close to the show. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:34 am JohnTelesz Or the walking dead #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:35 am Jamie_LD @IngridElkner We watched all of season 1 in two days. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:35 am GCGeek @Jamie_LD *waves back* it's going well! So happy to have several
projects to focus on :-) #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:35 am Jamie_LD @GCGeek I have too many. lol #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:36 am ElectricianPlus Then I must say that, this was a very bold script. It prob. needs
another read, but my jaw was on the floor for most of this. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:36 am Jamie_LD So what is everyone's first impresstion of AMH? #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:37 am GCGeek @ElectricianPlus My jaw dropped several times throughout the
season. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:37 am SarahAlexis4 @Jamie_LD I was most curious to read the pilot to see how they
handled things like Moira & Rubber Man in the action. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:37 am Jamie_LD Oh, and while I have everyone's attention, we will be having John
Vorhaus as our guest next week. www.johnvorhaus.com #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:37 am Jamie_LD @SarahAlexis4 Me too. I was surprised they didn't have OLD
MOIRA/YOUNG MOIRA. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:38 am ElectricianPlus It sounds like it was written by someone with a lot of "novel"
experience.n #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:38 am Jamie_LD @GCGeek DH says it's better than any horror movie he's watched. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:39 am Jamie_LD @ElectricianPlus As in novel writing? #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:39 am SarahAlexis4 @GCGeek my jaw fell a few times too and I had seen it already :) #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:39 am ElectricianPlus Yes Novel writing. It actually read more like a novel that a script I am
used to. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:40 am GCGeek @Jamie_LD He's right. With 13 episodes they really had the chance
to weave the horror and tease the story out. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:40 am Jamie_LD I was surprised by the number of camera angles written into the
script. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:41 am OfficeHooky Hey all! #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:41 am GCGeek Me too. RT @IngridElkner: ?...its a writers script. I like some of the
descriptors they used. Poetic but created brevity. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:41 am Jamie_LD I was happy to see that they cut the scene where Violet finds out
about Tate. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:41 am Jamie_LD Hello! Good to "see" you. RT @OfficeHooky: Hey all! #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:42 am ElectricianPlus I'm guess they drag the Tate story out a little longer before she finds
out then. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:42 am SarahAlexis4 @Jamie_LD I thought the tone of the script was set and sustained
well. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:42 am GCGeek @IngridElkner "?" was a typo #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:43 am SarahAlexis4 @Jamie_LD ah, I thought that was cut but couldn't remember. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:43 am Jamie_LD @ElectricianPlus Several episodes. And it makes for a better season.
#tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:43 am OfficeHooky @ElectricianPlus You still alive and kicking? Good! Writers need to
be tough (we survived some Whitney tweet backlash). #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:43 am ElectricianPlus @OfficeHooky Welcome. Glad you didn't get put in "Twitter Jail" for
this morning. ;) #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:44 am Jamie_LD @SarahAlexis4 Had a AHS marathon. Almost as good as the
#Justified marathon. Now we should analyze that script. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:44 am GCGeek I did 't know each season is self-contained so I didn't know they would
end big, but love that they could. Season 2 new story! #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:44 am Jamie_LD @GCGeek I find that odd. Hard to find actors for just one season. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:44 am OfficeHooky @Jamie_LD Nice seeing you! Deepest apologies... what's du jour? #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:45 am ElectricianPlus @GCGeek How creatively unique to do that...Actors want to act.
They'll find actors. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:45 am SarahAlexis4 @Jamie_LD we should! #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:45 am Jamie_LD @OfficeHooky We are discussing American Horror Story. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:45 am GCGeek @Jamie_LD Some actors are returning, as new characters. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:45 am Jamie_LD @SarahAlexis4 I'm reading a short story by Elmore Leonard, and one
of the scenes from Season 2 is right out of the story. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:46 am OfficeHooky @ElectricianPlus I've been to real jail. Twitter jail is a walk in the
park. You had some brilliant commentary! #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:46 am Jamie_LD @GCGeek Oh, okay. I hadn't heard anything about new season,
other than new characters. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:46 am Jamie_LD @GCGeek Still a bit weird though. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:47 am GCGeek Personally, I love the arc of 13 episodes but a brand new horror story
each season. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:47 am Jamie_LD @IngridElkner It did have a big impact. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:47 am ElectricianPlus @OfficeHooky Shhh...I try to keep my "offensive" side away from the
cool kids. They might kick me out of their club. ;) #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:47 am Jamie_LD Not a series you could start in the middle. You wouldn't know who is
dead and who is alive. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:48 am GCGeek I loved the descriptions in the pilot. An enjoyable read. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:48 am Jamie_LD @ElectricianPlus This club LOVES offensive, well, in the right way. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:48 am ElectricianPlus I think I would rather "read" this set of scripts instead of watch. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:49 am Jamie_LD @GCGeek I can totally see where this pilot would have been bought,
big time. Such a fun, easy read for a drama. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:49 am Jamie_LD @ElectricianPlus It's a fun series to watch. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:50 am OfficeHooky @ElectricianPlus I hope to hell the writers in here would be
supportive. At least not try to silence us. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:50 am GCGeek Hells yeah. RT @Jamie_LD @GCGeek I can totally see where this
pilot would have been bought... a fun, easy read for a drama. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:50 am SarahAlexis4 @GCGeek agreed! Some great lines in the action. Good flow. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:50 am ElectricianPlus @Jamie_LD Too many kids in the house to "view" this. Adult time is
spent making more kids. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:51 am Jamie_LD @ElectricianPlus Yeah, not a kid show. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:52 am ElectricianPlus Obviously this script can only be marketed to HBO/Showtime/Fx
audience. No Network at all.n #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:52 am GCGeek Absolutely not. RT @Jamie_LD: So do you think this show would
have worked for network TV? #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:53 am ElectricianPlus @Jamie_LD I think too many tweaks...they wouldn't touch it. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:53 am Jamie_LD @GCGeek What makes you say that? I mean if it was sexually toned
down. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:54 am Jamie_LD Speaking of HBO, I'm working on a script called SHAKERS, it's the
pole dancer's POV of the Sopranos' lifestyle. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:54 am GCGeek They would have toned down everything. RT @Jamie_LD:
@GCGeek What makes you say that? I mean if it was sexually toned
down. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:55 am Jamie_LD @GCGeek Yeah, and for that reason, I'm glad it's FX. It wouldn't be
the same show. I agree, no way it'd be network. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:55 am Jamie_LD Would anyone be interested in analyzing JUSTIFIED? #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:56 am ElectricianPlus @Jamie_LD I did some electrical work in a "pole Dancing"
establishment for a few months. They are intriguing places. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:56 am Jamie_LD @Jamie_LD I agree. Great twist. I think this is what TV watchers are
craving. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:57 am GCGeek @Jamie_LD Yes. FX, HBO, etc. is right venue. American networks
would kill too much - sex, intensity, most of the storyline. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:57 am SarahAlexis4 @Jamie_LD I would #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:57 am Jamie_LD I knew I could count on you! Love it. RT @SarahAlexis4: @Jamie_LD
I would #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:58 am JohnTelesz Haven't seen any pole dancers lately, but did see some pretty good
ukrainian ones recently. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:58 am SarahAlexis4 @Jamie_LD :) #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:58 am ElectricianPlus @Jamie_LD I can help with what you need. You know my
perspective up front. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 2:59 am GCGeek Technical question: Time of Day is cool with a slug? INT - KITCHEN -
MORNING vs. DAY? #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:00 am IngridElkner @GCGeek Most peeps say don't use morning or twilight or anything.
Just clear night or day - you can describe under slug. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:00 am ElectricianPlus @GCGeek I use Morning, afternoon, evening, night. Hope it is OK. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:02 am GCGeek @IngridElkner I'm going to stick with that approach. Thanks! #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:02 am Jamie_LD @GCGeek @IngridElkner I use morning/day/night, but not more
specific than that. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:03 am Jamie_LD The one thing that really stood out for me in thAHS script was the
improper use of "it's." Grammar freak here. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:03 am ElectricianPlus Has there been ANYTHING on TV done close to this? #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:04 am Jamie_LD But apparently not a spell check freak. Sorry. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:04 am Jamie_LD I don't think so. RT @ElectricianPlus: Has there been ANYTHING on
TV done close to this? #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:05 am Jamie_LD I have to admit, I'm finding TV writing MUCH more difficult than
features. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:05 am GCGeek @Jamie_LD LOL! I'm the same way. Like the RELATOR. I wish I
wouldn't notice. I'm most horrified with my own. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:05 am Jamie_LD lol Okay, how so? RT @IngridElkner: @Jamie_LD It was like a
polished, well-written, classy vomit draft. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:06 am Jamie_LD @GCGeek I know. And then I see mistakes I've made, that I know
better, and I'm horrified. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:06 am OfficeHooky @JohnTelesz How many Pole dancers does it take to do the Polka?
None. They're all busy changing Ukraine lightbulbs. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:06 am IngridElkner @Jamie_LD Just a lot of the spelling and grammar mistakes, like it
was written hastily, just rushing to get the ideas out. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:07 am Jamie_LD @IngridElkner I see what you mean. I agree in that respect. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:08 am GCGeek @ElectricianPlus There have been rule-breakers and groundbreakers
but few: M*A*S*H, All in the Family, The Shield, 24... #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:08 am SarahAlexis4 Was there anything anybody didn't like about the pilot script
specifically? Or what was your favorite aspect of it or scene? #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:08 am Jamie_LD Does anyone here agree that TV is harder to write than features? #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:08 am JohnTelesz @OfficeHooky I'm going to have to have a few more vodkas to figure
that one out. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:09 am Jamie_LD @SarahAlexis4 What I really didn't like was the lack of distinction
between Old Moira & Young Moira in dialogue. It bugged me #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:10 am mediadivaTV I think it is harder purely from the POV of having to plan multiple
episodes. That's a lot more hours @Jamie_LD #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:10 am Jamie_LD @SarahAlexis4 I didn't like that they really didn't show any
independence on Vivien's part. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:10 am ElectricianPlus I thought the school scene with the girls fighting was a bit out of
place...forced even.n #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:11 am Jamie_LD @mediadivaTV For me, it's trying to write a sitcom or drama, and not
being able to tel whole story. At least I think. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:12 am Jamie_LD @ElectricianPlus Or that Violet thought it was okay to smoke at
school at all. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:12 am ElectricianPlus @Jamie_LD Think opposite TV/Screenwriting...but I come from
Stand-up world. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:12 am GCGeek Same here. RT @Jamie_LD: @SarahAlexis4 What I really didnt like
was the lack of distinction between Old Moira & Young Moira... #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:13 am Jamie_LD @ElectricianPlus Oh, my sitcom pilot is killing me! I'm having a heck
of a time getting it on paper. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:13 am mediadivaTV @Jamie_LD Yeah, writing a spec can be like that. Think that's why I
prefer focusing on original ideas #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:13 am ElectricianPlus I liked that they used "Old Lady Butt" in the script. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:14 am GCGeek Coming up with fresh, yes. Structure is easier RT @Jamie_LD: Does
anyone here agree that TV is harder to write than features? #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:14 am Jamie_LD @mediadivaTV That's my issue, the original material. I love writing for
other shows. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:14 am ElectricianPlus @Jamie_LD Write the basic. Punch it up after. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:15 am mediadivaTV @Jamie_LD What has always appealed to me about TV writing is the
team aspect, once over the massive getting hired hurdle. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:15 am Jamie_LD @mediadivaTV The idea is easy and fun, but getting it on paper and
the best way to introduce characters w/o seeming forces. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:15 am Jamie_LD @mediadivaTV Totally agree. I'd love to be a part of a writer's room. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:16 am Jamie_LD @mediadivaTV Forced, not forces. Sorry. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:16 am ElectricianPlus @Jamie_LD I try "walking the day" with my characters...how they
would deal with situations...works for fresh material. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:16 am IngridElkner @Jamie_LD Yeah, writing a pilot is easy in theory, until you try to put
it onto the page, then the pain strikes. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:16 am SarahAlexis4 @Jamie_LD is this the sitcom you and DH were working on
developing material for, I think... #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:16 am mediadivaTV @Jamie_LD Yeah, it's hard to set up an entire show in a pilot without
taking up too much time #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:16 am Jamie_LD @filmscriptread If only it'd write itself. lol #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:17 am Jamie_LD @SarahAlexis4 Yes, I was writing it alone, then I brought my DH in for
a fresh perspective. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:17 am Jamie_LD RT @IngridElkner: @Jamie_LD Yeah, writing a pilot is easy in theory,
until you try to put it onto the page, then pain strikes. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:18 am ElectricianPlus @mediadivaTV @Jamie_LD Always works to put characters together
early...like the Table in "Community." Then just dialog #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:18 am Jamie_LD Back to AHS, is there anything you'd have done differently with the
pilot? #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:19 am Jamie_LD @ElectricianPlus Trying to write as multi-camera, and struggling with
the set up/payoff aspect. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:19 am IngridElkner @ElectricianPlus Absolutely. I always find writers only get stuck when
they don't know their characters well enough. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:20 am SarahAlexis4 @Jamie_LD I think that's great. Talking out story ideas like that can
really help. Bouncing off somebody can be fun/useful. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:20 am mediadivaTV @Jamie_LD I've listened to/read about a few writing partnerships
lately. I see the advantages. #wheresmywritingsoulmate #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:20 am ElectricianPlus @Jamie_LD Write as single cam...rewrite to multi-cam. Get story
down first...just my thought. Multi-Cam is tricky. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:21 am OfficeHooky @Jamie_LD For some reason, just can't start writing feature. TV
easier for me. Feel more comfortable with a novel than feature #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:21 am Jamie_LD @ElectricianPlus And I may find I want to keep it single cam. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:21 am GCGeek No. But i'm unqualified to say :) RT @Jamie_LD: Back to AHS, is
there anything youd have done differently with the pilot? #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:21 am sdarancette Hi #tvwriterchat, uh, yeah, forgot it was happening tonight. But hey,
here I am. Any dip left? No? Okay, do I need to make a beer run?
2012-02-13 3:21 am Jamie_LD @OfficeHooky I've never been good with the short story. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:22 am Jamie_LD @sdarancette Nope, we've got Blue Moon on tap. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:22 am GCGeek @sdarancette Whew! Low on ice, bro #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:22 am malber @Jamie_LD me too, me too! (hi all!) #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:22 am sdarancette @Jamie_LD Nice! Score! #tvwriterchat #sponsoredbybluemoon
2012-02-13 3:22 am Jamie_LD @GCGeek But you have your opinion. The only thing I'd have done
differently, they did in the filming. Leave Tate's history out #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:23 am ElectricianPlus @Jamie_LD @OfficeHooky That is why planning TOO much can be
detrimental... #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:23 am mediadivaTV @Jamie_LD nothing like an ice cold virtual Blue Moon to satisfy my
craving :D #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:23 am Jamie_LD @malber Hi Mike. Hope all is well. I've been off the grid a bit lately. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:23 am sdarancette @GCGeek Okay, will get ice just don't end the party before I come
back. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:23 am Jamie_LD Drooling now. lol RT @mediadivaTV: @Jamie_LD nothing like an ice
cold virtual Blue Moon to satisfy my craving :D #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:24 am malber @Jamie_LD we've all got outside lives, i suppose. those must be
maintained as well. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:24 am mediadivaTV @Jamie_LD Same here! Is 1:30pm to crack open the one beer in my
fridge?? #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:24 am Jamie_LD @ElectricianPlus Ha, that's my problem. I'm trying too hard to plan it
out. Or not...I just don't know. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:24 am GCGeek @Jamie_LD leave Tate's history out from pilot or series entirely? #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:25 am Jamie_LD @malber And our restaurant reopens for the year on Saturday. Fun. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:25 am ElectricianPlus @GCGeek I think Tate might "muck it up" a bit...it did seem busy with
him. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:25 am Jamie_LD From pilot, leave us guessing. RT @GCGeek: @Jamie_LD leave
Tate's history out from pilot or series entirely? #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:25 am GCGeek @sdarancette we'll be here. If you're quick. Oh, and some slim jims! #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:26 am mediadivaTV I'm late to the party and haven't read AHS pilot (yet), but what really
captures your attention when reading the script? #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:26 am GCGeek @Jamie_LD Yes! #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:26 am Jamie_LD @ElectricianPlus Tate's character is great for suspense. What
happened, why is he there, but make us wait for it. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:27 am TVWriterChat @mediadivaTV You can get the script from www.tvwriterchat.com on
the chat schedule page. Great script. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:27 am TVWriterChat I think @Jamie_LD is in Twitter jail. hahaha #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:28 am mediadivaTV @TVWriterChat Awesome. Grabbing it now! #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:29 am SarahAlexis4 @mediadivaTV for me a big part of appeal was that it was different
and daring. It was intriguing. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:29 am TVWriterChat Okay folks. Another hour gone. Stay tuned next week for special
guest John Vorhaus. www.johnvorhaus.com #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:29 am TVWriterChat @SarahAlexis4 Definitely daring (from jamie_ld) #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:30 am ElectricianPlus Thanks everyone! Nice stepping out of my comfort zone. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:30 am TVWriterChat Jamie says, "See you all next week!" #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:30 am GCGeek @TVWriterChat @Jamie_LD Thank you! So glad I could join
everyone tonight! #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:30 am GCGeek @ElectricianPlus Me too! #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:30 am IngridElkner It's definitely a guilty pleasure kinda show, like True Blood. A bit of
dark, delicious trash to look forward to every week. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:31 am sdarancette I didn't read the pilot like you guys but saw it along with the rest of the
series. A great pilot. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:31 am malber @TVWriterChat if anyone wants to do me a solid and read a 1/2 hour
pilot and gimme general impressions, lemme know. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:31 am SarahAlexis4 Great chatting with you all. Have a good writing week. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:31 am TVWriterChat @malber This is Jamie, email me. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:35 am IngridElkner @sdarancette is late to the party. Just in time to clean up the empties
and sullied paper plates. #tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:35 am GCGeek @malber I'd be happy to read if you're looking for feedback. #
tvwriterchat
2012-02-13 3:36 am sdarancette Looking for a pro to help you sharpen up your spec TV pilot, or pitch,
or animation project visit http://t.co/y5g7FlQJ #tvwriterchat

Transcript for January 22, 2012 - TV Writing Fellowships

So we got a little off topic, and then back on, and then off again, and there we go, back on. Hahaha

I want to thank @malber @mr_kiyongkim and @jengrisanti for taking the time to chat with us tonight. And thanks to Gray for being there to co-moderate.

Also CONGRATULATIONS to Mike Alber for the sale to Disney. All the best to Mike and his writing partner Gabe!

And now the transcript:

2012-01-23 2:20 am GrayJones 10 mins to #tvwriterchat, all about writing fellowships. Study

@Jamie_LD's helpful blog post first: http://t.co/84aqOgtx

2012-01-23 2:23 am malber @Jamie_LD yeah, i doubt it. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:24 am mr_kiyongkim hey guys. it's been awhile. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:24 am anniewood @thewasif - if you're around check out #tvwriterchat. but you can't

sit next to me if you continue to snap your bubble gum.

2012-01-23 2:25 am malber @mr_kiyongkim hey dude! how's it going? #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:27 am GrayJones Apologies to non-writing friends -- #tvwriterchat about to start, lots of

tweets for the next hour. Chat room link: http://t.co/HIckAQBe

2012-01-23 2:27 am mr_kiyongkim @malber i'm ok. how bout yourself? #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:27 am thewasif #tvwriterchat i'm on board @anniewood but i've stuck my gum

under my desk

2012-01-23 2:28 am Jamie_LD It's time to talk TV fellowships for 2012. #Tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:29 am malber @mr_kiyongkim great! gabe and i sold a new pilot the other day!

we're super excited. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:29 am GrayJones According to @jengrisanti (NBC on the Verge) competition means u

need to have many gr8 writing samples to even be considered. #

Tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:29 am Jamie_LD The first deadline in 2012 is for the Nickelodeon fellowship.

@mr_kiyongkim was there last year. #Tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:30 am mr_kiyongkim @malber wow congrats! that's awesome! #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:30 am SarahAlexis4 Hi guys! #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:30 am Jamie_LD @malber High five to you and Gabe. I take it the paperwork is done.

#Tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:30 am jeannevb WOAH! AWESOME! RT @malber: @mr_kiyongkim great! gabe and i

sold a new pilot the other day! we're super excited. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:30 am SarahAlexis4 @malber Congrats! That's great :) #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:31 am anniewood @thewasif let's remember to get it after this. gum aint cheap. #

tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:31 am Jamie_LD @GrayJones You have to have one to be considered and at least one

more if you get past initial entry. #Tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:31 am GrayJones Awesome! Congrats! “@malber: gabe and i sold a new pilot the other

day! we're super excited. #tvwriterchat”

2012-01-23 2:31 am anniewood @GrayJones what's considered many? #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:31 am Jamie_LD @malber I take it this is your first public tweet about the pilot. Lol #

Tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:31 am GrayJones Writing fellowships are AMAZING to get you staffed, but are not the

1st step in the chain... more like 2nd last. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:31 am malber @Jamie_LD for NBC, you need originals or spec episodes? #

tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:32 am thewasif “@malber: @mr_kiyongkim great! gabe and i sold a new pilot the

other day! #tvwriterchat... Awesome! Details? Log line?

2012-01-23 2:32 am malber @GrayJones thanks! didn't mean to hijack the conversation! #

tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:32 am art1032 hello #tvwriterchat:)

2012-01-23 2:32 am mr_kiyongkim @Jamie_LD disney asked for 2 more samples for the 2nd round, so

that's 3 scripts right there #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:32 am Jamie_LD Just in case everyone doesn't already know it, @malber ROCKS!

Hahaha #Tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:33 am GrayJones via NBC: 'looking for writers who are "almost there" but need that final

bit of preparation' #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:33 am JasmineMcAtee2 @malber Congrats! #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:33 am Jamie_LD @malber If you make it to round 2, I think they want a spec and

original. #Tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:33 am Jamie_LD RT @mr_kiyongkim: @Jamie_LD disney asked for 2 more samples

for the 2nd round, so thats 3 scripts right there #Tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:33 am GrayJones To get an agent, advisable to have 2 specs & 2 pilots. Would guess

it's about the same for a fellowship these days. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:34 am malber @GrayJones shoot, how do you know if you're "almost there"?! i

mean, some days i feel pretty far from there. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:34 am TeelaJBrown @GrayJones by that definition (NBC) I've been prime for their picking

for the last 3 years. Maybe year 4 will be the time... #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:34 am art1032 YAY! Congrats!:)@Jamie_LD @malber #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:34 am SarahAlexis4 Anybody have any insight or advice on writing the personal essays

some of the fellowships require? #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:35 am Jamie_LD Always a spec of a current show for the initial application. WB lists the

shows they'll accept. #Tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:35 am anniewood @malber mazeltov, bravo and congrats to you! #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:35 am johnarusso RT @GrayJones: To get an agent, advisable to have 2 specs & 2

pilots. Would guess it's about the same for a fellowship these days. #

tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:35 am TeelaJBrown @SarahAlexis4 Don't be too dry in your prose. Make it somewhat

entertaining. Apparently I also fail at this, so YMMV. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:35 am malber @mr_kiyongkim wow, that's a lot of material. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:35 am GrayJones Since @jengrisanti works both sides of the fellowship fence, I highly

consider paying for her script/career consulting. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:36 am Jamie_LD @mr_kiyongkim any advice for the peersonal essay portion? #

Tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:36 am johnarusso Is there as list of fellowships and dates? #TVwritechat #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:36 am LauraVanVleet RT @Jamie_LD: Always a spec of a current show for the initial

application. WB lists the shows they'll accept. #Tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:37 am JasmineMcAtee2 Very interesting to see the list of shows WB will accept. Great

reference. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:37 am malber @TeelaJBrown @sarahalexis4 also try to tell your story, what

separates you from other applicants. dont just rehash application #

tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:37 am GrayJones @johnarusso @Jamie_LD did a great summary: http://t.co/84aqOgtx

#tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:37 am anniewood @GrayJones yeah, @jengrisanti keeps popping up in conversations.

#tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:37 am SarahAlexis4 @TeelaJBrown Thanks for the response. Yeah, I guess you really

need to grab them just as with the spec sample. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:37 am mr_kiyongkim @Jamie_LD for the essay, that's also a sample of your writing, so i

would put some time into writing it. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:37 am Jamie_LD I've posted 2012 fellowship blog post at http://t.co/qiWEzZMq #

Tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:38 am anniewood has anyone here ever been accepted into a fellowship? #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:38 am Jamie_LD @johnarusso http://t.co/qiWEzZMq I just posted fellowships 2012 #

Tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:38 am SarahAlexis4 @malber Right. Utilize the opportunity to stand out. Thanks, Mike. #

tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:39 am JasmineMcAtee2 @Jamie_LD That's a great post - thanks! #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:39 am GrayJones @anniewood - @mr_kiyongkim has been thru one! #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:39 am anniewood btw, this is my first tweetchat. is this how it works? or does some sort

of leader show up and lead the show? #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:39 am Jamie_LD @anniewood Kiyong just finished his year with Nickelodeon. #

Tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:39 am malber @anniewood thanks for the congrats everybody! if you want more

info, lets talk after the chat. don't wanna take over the topic #

tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:40 am GrayJones @anniewood It's moderated, but only when we need to get back on

topic. For the most part, it's free chatting on a topic. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:40 am mr_kiyongkim @Jamie_LD also, i'd focus on experiences you've had that make you

stand out from everyone else. like any job i guess. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:40 am Jamie_LD @anniewood I'm the moderator. You are welcome to ask questions.

We have several experienced writers on board tonight. #

Tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:40 am anniewood @mr_kiyongkim how was nick for you? fun? did it open up a zillion

doors for you? #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:41 am anniewood @GrayJones copy that. thanks. it's fun! #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:41 am Jamie_LD @malber Can we give you the last 15 minutes or so? Do you have

time? #Tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:42 am malber @Jamie_LD sure. glad to talk about it. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:42 am GrayJones Q: for applicants outside US, are the fellowships treated as an

educator, i.e. to get temporary student visa? #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:42 am mr_kiyongkim @anniewood nick was fun but it hasn't led to anything yet

unfortunately. the transition from fellowship to career isnt a given #

tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:42 am malber @GrayJones great question! #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:43 am IngridElkner @malber We'll gush over you like you're that girl who gets flowers

delivered at school on Valentine's Day. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:43 am Jamie_LD @malber Thanks. You are awesome. #Tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:43 am malber @mr_kiyongkim you're applying to the other fellowship programs

now, yeah? #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:43 am Jamie_LD @GrayJones You have to find your own way to get "legal" or visa. #

Tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:44 am anniewood @Jamie_LD hi there. ok, cool. has anyone ever worked as a writer's

assistant? #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:44 am Jamie_LD @mr_kiyongkim Are you applying again this year? #Tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:45 am GrayJones Arg. Thought so, but still a bummer. “@Jamie_LD: You have to find

your own way to get "legal" or visa. #Tvwriterchat”

2012-01-23 2:45 am anniewood @mr_kiyongkim well, perhaps it still will. do you feel it made you a

better writer? more savvy? #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:45 am mr_kiyongkim @malber @Jamie_LD i probably will but i won't write new specs. i

need to focus on pilots so i can sell them like mike! #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:45 am thewasif #tvwriterchat so to summarize, do ur best spec or pilot but have 3

other scripts (of both variety) in the can, then hi lite ur uniqueness?

2012-01-23 2:46 am malber @mr_kiyongkim yes! and i think original material makes finding reps

easier. are you still looking? #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:47 am anniewood @mr_kiyongkim do you have an agent or manager? #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:47 am Jamie_LD @mr_kiyongkim Mike hasn't even written the script yet. He's just that

good in a room. #Tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:47 am GrayJones Getting a visa without an employer sponsoring (rare in TV industry) is

very difficult. So- foreign ≠ fellowship. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:47 am mr_kiyongkim @anniewood it definitely made me a better writer. i got to spend a lot

of time writing specs #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:47 am malber @thewasif that's sounds about right! #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:48 am IngridElkner @GrayJones @Jamie_LD So the paying ones won't sponsor you if

you're from OS? #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:48 am anniewood @malber @mr_kiyongkim - i go to a lot of WGA events and the word

on the street is original pilots is where it's at. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:48 am anniewood @mr_kiyongkim and is nick the one that also pays you? #

tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:48 am SarahAlexis4 @mr_kiyongkim Any advice on choosing a show to spec for the

fellowships? #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:48 am mr_kiyongkim @malber yeah i was told agent meetings were going to be set up, but

6 months later and nothing, so... #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:48 am GrayJones I guess not? RT @IngridElkner: @Jamie_LD So the paying ones wont

sponsor you if youre from OS? #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:49 am Jamie_LD @anniewood Nick and ABC both pay. #Tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:49 am mr_kiyongkim @anniewood nick and disney pay, but they're full time. the others are

part time. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:50 am malber @anniewood yeah, that's what my agent/manager say too. original

material, even for staffing jobs, is king right now. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:50 am Jamie_LD Remember, when applying for fellowships, they evaluate the full

package, not just the script. Polish everything. #Tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:51 am thewasif RT @malber: @thewasif that's sounds about right! #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:51 am IngridElkner @mr_kiyongkim @malber Did you guys have range in your specs &

pilots, or did you stick to relatively the same genres/formats? #

tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:51 am GrayJones Pilots are king, but there are still MANY out there who want specs,

and you never know when the tide will turn back. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:51 am malber @Jamie_LD good advice. you're competing against a LOT of people.

polish everything. don't give em a reason to say no. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:51 am mr_kiyongkim @SarahAlexis4 pick a show you love whose voice you can capture,

while expressing your unique point of view. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:51 am thewasif “@malber: @thewasif that's sounds about right! #tvwriterchat”... Thx,

mike.... Anyone know which specs r hot right now?

2012-01-23 2:52 am malber @GrayJones absolutely. write both if you're looking to get staffed or

for representation. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:53 am mr_kiyongkim @IngridElkner all my writing samples are half hour comedies. #

tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:53 am jeannevb RT @malber: @Jamie_LD good advice. you're competing against a

LOT of people. polish everything. don't give em a reason to say no. #

tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:53 am anniewood @malber do u find that your agent is swinging doors open 4 u, or is it

mostly u getting your stuff read somehow? #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:53 am Jamie_LD @thewasif Check out the WB list at the fellowship page for shows to

spec. A good indicator. #Tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:53 am TeelaJBrown @malber I can't decide on a new spec yet. Leaning Homeland but

may swing back to something else... #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:53 am gregorywalters @GrayJones As a fellow Canuck, I share your frustration. Trying to

move to L.A. with relatives sponsoring me. A long wait. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:53 am SarahAlexis4 @mr_kiyongkim Thanks. Yes, I'd imagine it's important your passion

should shine through. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:53 am anniewood @malber how did u get your 1st agent? i've had about 38 in my life as

an actress. about that many husbands too. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:54 am malber @anniewood definitely my agent and managers opening doors for

me. but you need to be good in those rooms to make it happen #

tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:54 am mr_kiyongkim @thewasif i think modern family is over done right now. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:54 am SarahAlexis4 @TeelaJBrown I'm in the process of trying to pick a show too. #

tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:54 am GrayJones Yep! “@gregorywalters: fellow Canuck, I share your frustration. Trying

to move to L.A. with relatives sponsoring me. #tvwriterchat”

2012-01-23 2:55 am malber @TeelaJBrown isn't homeland very serialized? (haven't seen it) i feel

like serialized shows are hard to spec. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:56 am anniewood @thewasif who let u in here? :) i also heard modern family and 30

rock has been done to death spec-wise. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:56 am Jamie_LD Looks like my Cougar Town might be good for one more season. Yay!

#Tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:56 am GrayJones IMO it's a tough time to pick a spec drama. The best ones are way

overdone, or serialized & tough. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:56 am mr_kiyongkim even if you think you know a show, research the hell out of it. break it

down so you understand how the show is put together. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:56 am gregorywalters @mr_kiyongkim I end up writing specs for shows that get cancelled

(e.g., Old Christine, soon-to-be-axed Community). #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:56 am malber @anniewood my managers introduced us to our first (and only) agent.

#tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:57 am Jamie_LD I'm speccing New Girl and Happy Endings. #Tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:57 am malber @gregorywalters gotta read the ratings! http://t.co/X1YvYSGw #

tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:57 am IngridElkner @malber Even sitcoms are hard to spec. I wrote a Big Bang where

Sheldon begins liking a woman. Ruined now by (rapid) arc. #

tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:57 am thewasif “@Jamie_LD: Check out the WB list at the fellowship page for shows

to spec. A good indicator. #Tvwriterchat”... Thx Jamie

2012-01-23 2:57 am malber @Jamie_LD both of which will be renewed! #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:58 am anniewood @malber so you're a team? me and @thewasif are a potential future

team. do u think it's easier to break in as a team? #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:58 am JarikaJohnson RT @mr_kiyongkim: even if you think you know a show, research the

hell out of it. break it down so you understand how the show is put

together. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:58 am mr_kiyongkim @gregorywalters yeah my community spec might be obsolete soon. #

tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:58 am malber @IngridElkner frustrating, right? can work though... as long as the

characters are in the same spot at the end as the start. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:58 am SarahAlexis4 @Jamie_LD Good shows. I love Happy Endings! #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:58 am gregorywalters @malber When I go just by the ratings, I spec for shows people say

are "overdone" (e.g., my latest: Modern Family). #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:59 am GrayJones True, but Q is whether Hollywood insiders know it. “@alextvwatch:

How about White Collar? Chuck vibe with procedural nature.” #

tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:59 am jengrisanti RT @anniewood: @GrayJones yeah, @jengrisanti keeps popping up

in conversations. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 2:59 am malber @anniewood i think being a team makes it easier in rooms, pitches,

and to get staffed. but half the money. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:00 am malber @gregorywalters new shows that are doing well are the best, i think.

New Girl, 2 Broke Girls, Person of Interest, among others #

tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:01 am GrayJones Hey @jengrisanti, do you want to join our chat about writing

fellowships? Here--> http://t.co/3p29nVQ1

2012-01-23 3:01 am johnarusso @malber @anniewood easier bc you can play off each other? #

tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:01 am GrayJones “@jengrisanti: Thank u!! I am GR8ful! If anyone wants 2 take a class,

I will be @ The Writers Store 1/28 http://t.co/MPLxlIFQ” #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:01 am Jamie_LD I really want to write a Justified, but may be difficult. #Tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:02 am gregorywalters @Jamie_LD New Girl and Happy Endings may be worth speccing.

Both have promise & try hard but are wildly inconsistent. #

tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:02 am malber @johnarusso absolutely. in a pitch, you can play off your partner's

energy. you can make each other laugh if they aren't. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:02 am malber @Jamie_LD ooh, love justified. the early episodes were very

self-contained. not so much the recent seasons. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:03 am anniewood @johnarusso my schizophrenia has that part covered. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:03 am IngridElkner @malber I had planned to subtley show Sheldon that he can have

feelings for a woman. Slow arc, Pinocchio becoming a real boy. #

tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:03 am gregorywalters @malber Yeah. That means I gotta watch 2 Broke Girls... #

tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:03 am TeelaJBrown @Jamie_LD the higher the degree of difficulty, the better, is my

opinion. Why spec a show most can write (CSI)? #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:03 am anniewood @malber i do think it would be more fun in the room and at pitches.

plus @thewasif always has candy. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:03 am malber @gregorywalters hahahaha #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:03 am johnarusso @anniewood :) #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:04 am malber @anniewood that's a good feature in a writing partner :) #

tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:04 am Jamie_LD @malber First season would have been much easier. Still can write a

contained episode with serial in the background. #Tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:04 am GrayJones @jengrisanti Which dramas do you think are good to spec right now?

#tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:04 am TeelaJBrown Re: good specs for fellowships/contests this year - (provided they are

renewed): Revenge, POI, Homeland, Am. Horror Story. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:05 am malber @Jamie_LD absolutely. i also think a little datedness isn't killer, but

you don't want your script to be two years old. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:05 am anniewood @malber what if you have several solo scripts. 2present ourselves as

a team, we need a few team scripts as well. how many? #

tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:05 am TeelaJBrown I am also holding out for Scandal (which premieres soon) as I think if

it takes off, Shonda's shows are always a good bet. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:05 am malber @TeelaJBrown i think all of those will get renewed. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:05 am GrayJones A great list! RT @TeelaJBrown: Re: good specs (provided they are

renewed): Revenge, POI, Homeland, Am. Horror Story. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:06 am malber @anniewood you have to have joint scripts if you're pitching

yourselves as a team. solo ones won't fly. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:07 am Jamie_LD We will be studying Amercian Horror Story next month when we talk

dramas. #Tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:08 am Jamie_LD So it looks like we're done talking about fellowships @Malber would

you like to talk about your sale? #Tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:09 am IngridElkner So can you do that? Can you write a spec based on the set-up of a

previous season?? #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:10 am malber @Jamie_LD so we came up w/ a take on it, pitched it (first to them,

then to their bosses), and got an offer a few days later! #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:11 am TeelaJBrown @IngridElkner An #AHS script, good for a year, if you write it soon

and get it out there. 1st season is all anyone has seen. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:11 am thewasif “@TeelaJBrown: Disagree. Create a bottle episode. It can be done.

#AHS #tvwriterchat”... Say, teela, what's a "bottle ep?"

self-contained?

2012-01-23 3:11 am SarahAlexis4 @malber so it was general meeting that started it all? very cool. #

tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:12 am malber @Jamie_LD our manager had a relationship with them, set up the

meeting. it's nice to get a win, and from a non-viacom co.! #

tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:12 am malber @SarahAlexis4 yeah, it was a general. that's why it's important to be

good/fun in the room. then they want to work w/ you. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:12 am Jamie_LD @malber that's right, you've been in bed with Spike a lot. Lol #

Tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:13 am mr_kiyongkim @malber so what happens next? #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:13 am SarahAlexis4 @malber Just curious, what do they provide when telling you about

an idea they have? characters? location? general story arcs? #

tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:13 am IngridElkner @malber Is it made clear it's just a general before hand, or do you

have some ideas ready in case they ask? #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:13 am malber @Jamie_LD spike, mtv, and comedy central! it was beginning to feel

incestuous :) #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:14 am malber @mr_kiyongkim now we negotiate the price, our involvement in the

show, et al. then we develop the pilot with them... #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:14 am malber @mr_kiyongkim then, if they like it, they might order the pilot to be

shot. then, who knows?! #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:14 am mr_kiyongkim @malber very exciting! #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:15 am malber @IngridElkner it was clearly a general, but we always have a few

ideas to toss around. idea generation is super important. #

tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:15 am Jamie_LD Exciting, scary. RT @malber: @mr_kiyongkim then, if they like it, they

might order the pilot to be shot. then, who knows?! #Tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:15 am anniewood @malber that is all fan-freakin-tastic! and thanks for answering all

sorts of questions 2nite. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:15 am GrayJones Hey all, I know we ended fellowships but @jengrisanti (NBC Verge) is

here, ready to field questions. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:16 am malber @Jamie_LD more exciting than scary, though. this is the path to the

dream! #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:16 am anniewood nice to meet u all. stay in touch and happy writing. i have a midori

martini with my name on it... #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:16 am IngridElkner So who actually has these ideas that get thrown at you? An exec? Did

they buy the concept off another writer? #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:16 am GrayJones Sure! Just go to http://t.co/HIckAQBe “@jengrisanti: If u want my

input, let me know.”

2012-01-23 3:16 am GrayJones Thx! “@jengrisanti: Gr8 specs now r JUSTIFIED, THE WALKING

DEAD, EPISODES, THE GOOD WIFE, HOMELAND, BIG BANG,

SHAMELESS” #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:17 am mr_kiyongkim @jengrisanti how many submissions do you usually get? what's the

breakdown between comedy and drama? #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:17 am jengrisanti Hello! It's Jen Grisanti. I know I'm late. Let me know if you have any

questions. @jengrisantin #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:17 am GrayJones Welcome @jengrisanti!!! #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:18 am jengrisanti At NBC, we received 1600 submissions this year for 8 slots.

@jengrisanti #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:18 am SarahAlexis4 @jengrisanti Hi, Jen! Glad you can stop by. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:18 am april30ara RT @GrayJones: Thx! “@jengrisanti: Gr8 specs now r JUSTIFIED,

THE WALKING DEAD, EPISODES, THE GOOD WIFE, HOMELAND,

BIG BANG, SHAMELESS” #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:18 am Jamie_LD @NaimaZarga go to http://t.co/b87lorhC for the script schedule.

2012-01-23 3:18 am jengrisanti We choose 4 comedy and 4 drama @jengrisanti #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:19 am JasmineMcAtee2 @jengrisanti WOW! #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:19 am malber @jengrisanti wow. that's daunting. how many out of 1600 are really

prepared for the program, though? #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:19 am jengrisanti Thanks Sarah!! It's great 2 c u here! Thx 4 all of ur support!!

@jengrisanti #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:19 am BldingTBettrMT RT @jengrisanti: We choose 4 comedy and 4 drama @jengrisanti #

tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:20 am mr_kiyongkim @jengrisanti nbc actually helps people find representation after the

program, right? #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:20 am GrayJones @jengrisanti What separated the 8 from the 1600? #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:20 am SarahAlexis4 @jengrisanti Any advice for writing specs that capture attention? How

can we stand out? What do you look for in a script? #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:20 am Jamie_LD @jengrisanti I'm reading your TV Writer Toolbox on my !Pad now. #

Tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:20 am malber @GrayJones i suppose that's a more tactful way to ask my question :)

#tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:20 am jengrisanti Well, there are 8 hired readers. I chime in when it's down to the 25 top

rated ones. 3 of my writers made it in last year. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:21 am TeelaJBrown @jengrisanti Wow. I thought it used to be 12... #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:21 am authorViviAnna wow looks like I picked the perfect time to pop in to #TVwriterchat

@jengrisanti

2012-01-23 3:21 am jengrisanti Jamie, Yay!! I've had many writers tell me that they wrote scripts from

that book, one of them made it into the program. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:22 am GrayJones BTW, gotta pimp @jengrisanti -- her clients have HUGE success rate.

Hundreds now have staffed, right Jen? #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:22 am jengrisanti No, I've been the writing instructor for 4 years. There are 8 slots but

often we have teams so it can be as many as 12. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:22 am Jamie_LD @jengrisanti So far I really love it. To the point, easy to read. #

Tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:23 am GrayJones LOL! For vacation, yes, but not for work. “@BigKev67:Don't

Canadians have automatic right of entry into the US?” #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:23 am jengrisanti 11 of my clients have sold pilots, 2 that went 2 series and 27 of my

clients have staffed. ; ) #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:23 am TeelaJBrown @jengrisanti thanks for clarification. that may be why i was under that

impression. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:23 am SoberJulie @jengrisanti I'm so glad I've stumbled across #tvwriterchat by

following you

2012-01-23 3:24 am GrayJones Well, that's HUGE! RT @jengrisanti: 11 of my clients sold pilots, 2

that went 2 series and 27 of my clients have staffed. ; ) #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:24 am Jamie_LD @SoberJulie Nice to have you here. We meet every Sunday at

6:30pm pacific. #Tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:24 am SoberJulie Wow RT @jengrisanti: 11 of my clients have sold pilots, 2 that went 2

series and 27 of my clients have staffed. ; ) #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:24 am SarahAlexis4 @Jamie_LD I'm re-reading the TV Writer Tool Kit now too #

tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:24 am jengrisanti I have a TV Spec & Pilot teleseminar that is everything I teach in

WOTV.It starts 3/5http://jengrisanticonsultancy.com/events/ #

tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:25 am malber @SoberJulie bienvenidos :) #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:25 am jengrisanti Thx Jamie! This is good to know. This is the first time I've done this.

It's great!! #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:26 am SoberJulie @malber hey there #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:26 am GrayJones Great thing about teleseminars is that you can take them from outside

the US without needing to worry about a visa. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:26 am jengrisanti Thank u Sarah! I hope that it's a great tool 4 u! #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:27 am Jamie_LD @jengrisanti It would be great to have you as our guest for the full

hour. You pick the date. #Tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:27 am jengrisanti Yes, I have writers from all of the world participating. It's a GR8

experience. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:28 am johnarusso RT @jengrisanti: I have a TV Spec & Pilot teleseminar that is

everything I teach in WOTV.It starts

3/5http://jengrisanticonsultancy.com/events/ #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:28 am jengrisanti Jamie, Ok, is Gray the organizer? I will check the dates on my

calendar and figure out a Sunday that works well. Thx! #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:29 am TeelaJBrown @malber hey, did you ever read my script? was it too horrible for

words? ;-) It was the one I submitted for fellowships. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:29 am CocktailDeeva RT @jengrisanti: I have a TV Spec & Pilot teleseminar that is

everything I teach in WOTV.It starts 3/http://ow.ly/1EAIjJ #

tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:29 am GrayJones @jengrisanti Awesome! Actually @Jamie_LD is the gatekeeper but

you can correspond with either of us. ;-) #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:30 am Jamie_LD @jengrisanti I'm the person who does the scheduling and blog. You

can also contact Gray. #Tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:30 am tjbradytv “@jengrisanti: ... 27 of my clients have staffed". ; #tvwriterchat. I am

one of them. Jen is the best. Hire her and listen to her notes!

2012-01-23 3:30 am malber @SoberJulie i like the idea that there's a DrunkJulie running around

somewhere :) #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:30 am jengrisanti It was great chatting w/ all of u!! I would love 2 b a guest in the future!

Thx!! Jen #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:30 am GrayJones Don't forget @jengrisanti's great podcast interview:

http://t.co/RMkh2afL Also next podcast is a manager. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:31 am jengrisanti Jamie, what is your e-mail address? Thx! Jenn #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:31 am SoberJulie Hang up that hat a while ago, now there's a sitcom RT @malber: i like

the idea that there's a DrunkJulie running around #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:31 am GrayJones I'll DM her address so it's not public. RT @jengrisanti: Jamie, what is

your e-mail address? Thx! Jen #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:32 am jengrisanti TJ, you are a doll! U r one of my biggest success stories! I am so

PROUD of u & Rasheed!! Jen x #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:32 am TeelaJBrown @tjbradytv TJ! You never call you never write...how the heck are ya?

#tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:32 am thewasif “@jengrisanti: I have a seminar that is everything I teach in WOTV.#

tvwriterchat”...I'm looking 2 meet u at M bar mixer in Feb & ask u re

it

2012-01-23 3:33 am pulptone “@Jamie_LD: I really want to write a Justified, but may be difficult. #

Tvwriterchat” just gotta be smooth and do it. And wear a hat.

2012-01-23 3:34 am jengrisanti Yes, the next Friday Night Drinks is at the X Bar in the Century Plaza

on 2/3 from 7-10p.m. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:34 am malber @TeelaJBrown i DID read it. didn't i give you notes? ugh. twitter is

screwing up. over capacity. let's talk via email. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:34 am Jamie_LD @pulptone And I do know how to wear a cowboy hat! Lol #

Tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:34 am jengrisanti My clients that have written specs for JUSTIFIED have done very

well. U can do it! #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:35 am jengrisanti Jamie, Send me an e-mail @ jennifer@jengrisanticonsultancy.com

and we will coordinate dates. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:37 am jengrisanti This was great! Thanks 4 having me! Have a great night! @jengrisanti

#tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:38 am GrayJones Well, it's been a surprise treat to have @jengrisanti with us! Thanks

so much, Jen! #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:38 am JasmineMcAtee2 @jengrisanti Looking forward to stopping by Friday Night Drinks next

month. #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:38 am SarahAlexis4 @Jamie_LD And drink some of Mags' apple pie moonshine while you

write haha #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:38 am SarahAlexis4 @jengrisanti Thanks for stopping by the chat. Hope to see you soon

as a guest! #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:38 am Jamie_LD @jengrisanti @malber @mr_kiyongkim Thanks for being a part of

tonight's #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:39 am GrayJones We've gone a bit long... I guess we'll be wrapping up? Thanks

everyone for a very informative chat! #tvwriterchat

2012-01-23 3:39 am SarahAlexis4 @malber @mr_kiyongkim Thanks for answering questions and

sharing your experiences. #tvwriterchat