Scriptnotes Podcast (.mp3)

John moderates Breaking the Stigma, a panel on addiction and mental health with guests Gemma Baker (creator of CBS’s Mom), Dr. Corey Waller (specialist in pain, addiction and emergency medicine), Dr. Holly Daniels (specialist in eating disorders and mental health issues), and journalist Zachary Siegel. We discuss how addiction and mental health issues are portrayed in film and TV, more authentic ways of telling these stories, and how writers and creators can take care of their own mental health. In our bonus segment for premium members, Drew joins John to talk about the etiquette of thank you notes and follow-up emails. Links: Episode 412 – Transcript Hollywood, Health & Society – USC Annenberg Norman Lear Center Eighth Grade 6 Balloons Motivational Interviewing Narcan Gemma Baker Dr. Holly Daniels Dr. Corey Waller on Twitter Zachary Siegel on Substack and Twitter Get a Scriptnotes T-shirt! Check out the Inneresting Newsletter Gift a Scriptnotes Subscription or treat yourself to a premium subscription! Craig Mazin on Threads and Instagram John August on Threads, Instagram and Twitter John on Mastodon Outro by Matthew Chilelli (send us yours!) This episode was originally produced by Megana Rao. Scriptnotes is produced by Drew Marquardt and edited by Matthew Chilelli. Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here.The post Writing About Mental Health and Addiction (Encore) first appeared on John August.

John and Craig offer guidance on how to “flip the script” on tropes without landing on your face. We also answer listener questions about phone numbers, sluglines and short films. Finally, in our bonus segment for premium members, we discuss our personal video game histories and the possibility that John was raised in a cult. Links: Join us Thursday, May 14th for a live talk with Lawrence Kasdan 4pm PT on Zoom here: Online Conversation: Revisiting The Empire Strikes Back with Lawrence Kasdan Submit to the Three Page Challenge Jordan Mechner’s: The Making of Prince of Persia, 1985-1993 and Bookshop.org Maria Bamford: Weakness is the Brand John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter John on Instagram Outro by James Llonch (send us yours!) Scriptnotes is produced by Megana Rao and edited by Matthew Chilelli. Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here. UPDATE 5-19-2020 The transcript for this episode can now be found here.The post There Are No Slow Claps first appeared on John August.

John and Craig debunk the ‘rule’ that one page of screenplay equals one minute of film. They advise screenwriters on what this could mean for the industry and look forward to a future that moves beyond pages. We also follow up on our discussion of professional readers (00:02:02) and suggestions for giving your friends feedback. Then, a look at how coronavirus has impacted Los Angeles and how we’re thinking about the situation. In our bonus segment, John and Craig debate which 1st level D&D spell we would choose to be able to cast in real life. Links: Scriptnotes Episode 441 – Readers How Accurate is the One Page per Minute Rule? Stephen Follows’s analysis on Is the One Page Per Minute Rule Correct? Try Highland 2 for free! Download Weekend Read to access your own or read our library of scripts today! Hollywood and Coronavirus Scriptnotes Episode 99: Psychotherapy for Screenwriters with captions on Youtube! Center for Health Security Updates Sign up for Scriptnotes Premium here. John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter John on Instagram Outro by Jim Bond and James Llonch (send us yours!) Scriptnotes is produced by Megana Rao and edited by Matthew Chilelli. Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here. UPDATE 3-20-2020 The transcript for this episode can now be found here.The post Stop Counting Pages (and Touching Your Face) first appeared on John August.

John moderates a panel discussion on the criminal justice system, incarceration and how to write about them. What’s real, what’s myth, and what stories need to be told? Guests include incarceration policy experts Aly Tamboura and Lovisa Stannow, writer Zach Calig of For Life, and documentarian Dan Birman (Me Facing Life). Then in our bonus segment (01:17:45), John and Craig discuss coronavirus: what we know, what we should be worried about, and whether crystals will help. Thank you to Hollywood Health & Society for organizing this event! Links: Beyond Bars: Changing the Narrative on Criminal Justice Watch the full panel here Aly Tamboura from the Chan Zuckerberg Initiative Lovisa Stannow executive director at Just Detention International Zach Calig writer on For Life Dan Birman documentary producer, watch Me Facing Life on Netflix April 30th! What Happens After You’re Released from Prison? Scriptnotes, Episode 324 How Would This Be a Movie? On the Line: The Female Inmates Who Battle California’s Deadly Wildfires by Matt Toder for NBC News. Coronavirus Updates Sign up for Scriptnotes Premium here. John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter John on Instagram Outro by Seth Podowitz (send us yours!) Scriptnotes is produced by Megana Rao and edited by Matthew Chilelli. Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here. UPDATE 3-6-2020 The transcript for this episode can be found here.The post Beyond Bars first appeared on John August.

John and Craig welcome back Liz Hannah to talk about her upcoming Netflix movie, All the Bright Places, and Hollywood’s often-frustrating reliance on IP. Particularly with non-fiction stories, has Hollywood warped journalistic ambitions? All of which serves as setup for another round of How Would This Be a Movie? (00:41:54), where we look at the Jeff Bezos phone hack, Carlos Ghosn, and a romantic political showdown. In our bonus segment for premium members (01:10:06), we discuss what is and is not okay to do with physical books, and situations where we’re willing to trade pixels for print. Links: Liz Hannah on Twitter and IMDb, and Scriptnotes episodes 242 and 359 The 2020 WGA Award nominees and winners Arlo Finch in the Kingdom of Shadows will be having a Launch Event: February 9, 2pm at Chevalier’s on Larchmont Scriptnotes, Episode 434 in which we discuss Knives Out MoviePass parent Helios and Matheson files for Chapter 7 and stock falls to zero, on MarketWatch All the Bright Places comes to Netflix on February 28 They Made a Movie Out of It by James Pogue John Gruber on the Jeff Bezos phone hack The New York Times on Carlos Ghosn’s escape and the Hollywood connection ‘Like a bad romcom’: couple run against each other in Irish election from The Guardian Trick Mirror: Reflections on Self-Delusion by Jia Tolentino Superieur Electrolytes Star Battle puzzles Wit’s End on Amazon John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter John on Instagram Outro by Lachlan Marks (send us yours!) Scriptnotes is produced by Megana Rao and edited by Matthew Chilelli. Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here. UPDATE 2-9-2020 The transcript for this episode can be found here.The post Political Movies first appeared on John August.

John talks with writer-director Noah Baumbach about his film Marriage Story. With script in hand, we discuss his writing process, handling overlapping dialogue, and how to find balance in a two-hander. We also answer a listener question about LA vs. New York apartments (01:05:16), and the challenge of making boring things interesting. In our bonus segment for premium members (01:14:26), Craig returns to discuss escape rooms! Links: Read the script for Marriage Story here or watch Marriage Story APA Signed with WGA, congrats APA! Megan McDonnell, former Scriptnotes Producer, to write Captain Marvel Sequel. Congrats! David Byrne’s American Utopia Noah Baumbach John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter John on Instagram Outro by Alex Winder (send us yours!) Scriptnotes is produced by Megana Rao and edited by Matthew Chilelli. Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here. UPDATE 1-30-2020 The transcript for this episode can be found here.The post The One with Noah Baumbach first appeared on John August.

John and Craig welcome Kevin Feige (President of Marvel Studios), Lorene Scafaria (Hustlers, Seeking a Friend for the End of the World), and Shoshannah Stern (This Close, Weeds, Jericho), to discuss creating an early aughts period piece, working with co-writers, and making genre movies out of comic books. We also introduce Scriptnotes Premium and play games on Real vs. Fake Awards Shows and literal movie quotes. Stay tuned for our bonus segment after the credits when we answer audience questions about the future of the Marvel Cinematic Universe and creative rituals. Thank you to the Writers Guild Foundation and the LA Film School for hosting us! Links: Sign up for Scriptnotes Premium Thank you to our incredible guests: Kevin Feige, Lorene Scafaria, and Shoshannah Stern, for joining us! And thanks to Robbie Sutton and Elizabeth Green for interpreting the show. Scriptnotes, Ep 44: Endings for Beginnings Twitter Block Chain Extension AI Dungeon Bathtubs Over Broadway Soundtrack FDA Approves Transparent Surgical Masks Dolly Parton’s America Podcast Kevin Feige on Twitter Lorene Scafaria on Twitter Shoshannah Stern on Twitter John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter John on Instagram Outro and Intro by Matthew Chilelli (send us yours!) Scriptnotes is produced by Megana Rao and edited by Matthew Chilelli Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here. UPDATE 1-6-2019 The transcript for this episode can now be found here.The post Holiday Live Show 2019 first appeared on John August.

John and guest host Aline Brosh McKenna welcome writer/showrunner Tim Federle (High School Musical: The Musical: The Series) to talk about his path from Broadway to Hollywood and how he came to create his first TV show. Along the way, we discuss TV musicals, LA vs. New York and pitch decks. We also follow up on the #PayUpHollywood survey results with producer Megana Rao and the new Academy screener app. Stick around after the credits for a special bonus segment about online stan culture. Links: #PayUpHollywood Releases Survey of 1,500 Entertainment Industry Assistants’ Pay, Working Conditions How Tracking My Excuses Helped Me Stop Making Them by Leigh Stein Cleansing Conditioners: R+Co Analog and Bella Spirit A is for Audra John August on Twitter Aline Brosh McKenna on Twitter Tim Federle on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter John on Instagram Outro by Matthew Chilelli (send us yours!) Scriptnotes is produced by Megana Rao and edited by Matthew Chilelli Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here. UPDATE 12-17-19 The transcript for this episode can be found here.The post From Broadway to Hollywood first appeared on John August.

John and Craig use Thanksgiving break to finally answer some long-gestating listener questions, ranging from writing television with act breaks to keeping your drafts organized. Plus we’ll look at two moves by the US Justice Department and their impact on screenwriters. In this week’s bonus segment, we do a meme! We’ll compare and reflect on our beliefs at the start and end of the decade. Links: Scriptnotes Holiday Live Show Assistant Townhall Extra Episode Assistant Townhall Full Livestream Justice Department on WGA ATA negotiations Justice Department Moves to End Paramount Decree Scriptnotes T-shirts now featuring all past designs! Writer Emergency Pack John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter John on Instagram Scriptnotes is produced by Megana Rao and edited by Matthew Chilelli Outro by Jemma Moran (send us yours!) Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here. UPDATE 12-17-19 The transcript for this episode can be found here.The post Cleaning up the Leftovers first appeared on John August.

John and Craig talk about best practices for assistants who write and how to properly credit support staff. We also touch on the state of WGA negotiations on both the studio and agency front, as well as a look ahead to the AMPTP deal. In our bonus segment, we’ll make our final ruling on cats. Links: Buy tickets for our Live Show Thursday, December 12th with Kevin Feige, Lorene Scafaria, Shoshannah Stern, and Josh Feldman! Professionalism in the Age of the Influencer, read the full text of John’s speech Watch the Assistant Townhall Learn more about Agency Affiliates Solar Mirror Breakthrough Archimedes’ Mirror John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter John on Instagram Outro by Matthew Chilelli (send us yours!) Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here. UPDATE 12-6-19 The transcript for this episode can be found here.The post Assistant Writers first appeared on John August.

John and Craig welcome back writer/comedian Mike Birbiglia (Sleepwalk with Me, My Girlfriend’s Boyfriend) to discuss his one-man show “The New One.” When writing about yourself, how much has to be true? What responsibilities do you have to friends and loved ones? Then it’s a new round of the Three Page Challenge, where we look at the first three pages in listeners’ scripts. We also address Akiva Schaffer’s concerns on movie screeners and try our first-ever bonus segment after the credits. Links: Three Page Challenge – F.T.S. by Danielle Motley Three Page Challenge – Dunked by John Bickerstaff Buy tickets to our live show with guests Kevin Feige, Lorene Scafaria, Shoshannah Stern, and Josh Feldman on December 12th at the LA Film School here. Join us or livestream the Assistant Townhall this Sunday, November 24th Spleeter open source music separation library Brains Sweep Themselves Clean Of Toxins During Sleep by Jon Hamilton Why We Sleep: Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams by Matthew Walker Support local! Books are Magic Mike Birbiglia on Twitter John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter John on Instagram Scriptnotes is produced by Megana Rao and edited by Matthew Chilelli Outro by Matthew Chilelli (send us yours!) Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here. UPDATE 12-1-19: The transcript of this episode can be found here.The post The New One with Mike Birbiglia first appeared on John August.

John and Craig discuss how to figure out if a given idea can work as a movie. What are the minimum requirements for story and vision a writer should consider before starting on a screenplay? We also invite Megana Rao and Bo Shim to follow up on our discussion of low assistant pay. Plus follow up from the WGA and video game industry awards, and a look ahead to the Austin Film Festival. Links: Austin Film Festival Schedule Taylor Swift Tiny Desk Concert on NPR What Is the Time Signature of the Ominous Electronic Score of The Terminator? by Seth Stevenson John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter John on Instagram Outro by Tyler Adams (send us yours!) Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here UPDATE 10-29-2019 The transcript for this episode can be found here.The post Minimum Viable Movie first appeared on John August.

John and Craig tackle the issue of assistant pay in Hollywood. Last week they called for assistants to share how much they were getting paid and the impact of those wages. They received a record number of responses highlighting the inequities in the industry. Using these emails, they take a look at the biggest issues with current pay and the challenges ahead. We also discuss videogame writing, spec features, and thesauri. Thank you to all of the Hollywood assistants who wrote in for this episode! Links: Hollywood’s Grueling Hours & Drowsy-Driving Problem: Crew Members Speak Out Despite Threat To Careers WGA Will No Longer Award Video Game Writing John’s Post on Assistant Pay Untitled Goose Game Queer Qrosswords John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter John on Instagram Scriptnotes is produced by Megana Rao and edited by Matthew Chilelli. Outro by Naomi Randall (send us yours!) Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here UPDATE 11-11-19 The transcript for this episode can be found here.The post Assistants Aren’t Paid Nearly Enough first appeared on John August.

John and Craig follow up on things they’ve discussed in the previous 420 episodes, so you might want to listen to those first. We check in on getting an agent, copyright law, the future of the industry, post-2016 election reflections, assistant pay, and much more. Links: Scriptnotes, Ep 5, Copyright and Work for Hire Real-Life ‘Terminator’: Major Studios Face Sweeping Loss of Iconic ‘80s Film Franchise Rights by Eriq Gardner Copyright Section 203 Friday 13th Screenwriter Wins Rights Battle by Eriq Gardner Scriptnotes, Ep 2, How to get an agent and/or manager Scriptnotes, Ep 389, The Future of the Industry How Ari Emanuel’s Outsize IPO Dreams Were Dashed by Kim Masters Why Endeavor’s IPO U-Turn Was a Surprisingly Brilliant Move by Lawrence Meyers WeWork: At What Point Does Malfeasance Become Fraud by Scott Galloway Scriptnotes, Ep 42, Verbs are what’s happening Extra, This Feeling Will End Ep 335, Introducing Launch Launch Podcast Scriptnotes Ep 419, Professionalism Scriptnotes Ep 403, How to Write A Movie Scriptnotes Ep 420, The One with Seth Rogen LA Report Broken Lights and Crosswalk Buttons Escape Room Apps by Goro Sato John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter John on Instagram Scriptnotes is produced by Megana Rao and edited by Matthew Chilelli. Outro by Jim Bond (send us yours!) Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here UPDATE 11-1-19 The transcript for this episode can be found here.The post Follow Upisode first appeared on John August.

John and Craig welcome writer/actor/producer/director Seth Rogen (Superbad, Knocked Up, Good Boys) to the podcast. They discuss Seth’s writing process, evolving with a creative partner, and the cinematic origins of 420. Seth then joins them for another edition of How Would This Be a Movie? looking at stories ranging from corruption, cattle mutilation, and geriatric thieves. Links: 420 origins according to Wikipedia ‘Someone’s Gotta Tell the Freakin’ Truth’: Jerry Falwell’s Aides Break Their Silence by Brandon Ambrosino Mysterious Oregon Cattle Killings, Mutilations Alarm Ranchers by Diana Kruzman An 82-year-old Man Slipped Past Doormen in Upscale Buildings for Years and Stole $400k in Jewelry, Police Say by Madeline Holcombe and Joshua Girsky How to Tighten Up Your Game at Work When You’re Depressed by Captain Awkward Saucey: Alcohol Delivery App Hilarity for Charity National Expungement Week, Seth’s PSA John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter Seth Rogen on Twitter John on Instagram Outro by Rajesh Naroth (send us yours!) Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here UPDATE 10-4-19: The transcript of this episode can be found here.The post The One with Seth Rogen first appeared on John August.

John and Craig discuss Craig’s experience winning an Emmy this week.The post Extra – What’s it like to win an Emmy? first appeared on John August.

John and Craig discuss topics ranging from the Emmys to elections, professionalism to patronage, along with the state of #MeToo. We also answer listener questions on credits and ask for your thoughts on potential changes to our premium subscriptions. Links: The Emmy Award Winners Congrats Craig! WGA Election Results She Said: Breaking the Sexual Harassment Story That Helped Ignite a Movement by Jodi Kantor and Megan Twohey Why I Quit the Writer’s Room by Walter Mosley Professional Writing and the Rise of the Amateur John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter John on Instagram Outro by Jon Spurney (send us yours!) Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here UPDATE 9.30.19 The transcript of this episode can be found here.The post Professionalism first appeared on John August.

John and Craig welcome back Aline Brosh McKenna to tackle the issue of idea management. What do you do with all those half-formed ideas and how do you decide which ones to pursue? They share best practices and their approach to middle-of-the-night inspiration. We’ll also discuss how screenwriters’ quotes are determined and answer some listener questions. Links: For anyone experiencing issues with the app, please try signing up for premium using this link! Email [email protected] with any questions. The Shadows Casting Call John is looking for a 15-year-old blind actress for the lead role — please help by sharing this link with anyone who might be a good fit! Dungeon World Crazy, Rich Asians Pay Disparity Searching for Bobby Fischer After Dark My Sweet Reg Ex Crossword Puzzle Sooth Massage App Assassin’s Creed John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter Aline Brosh McKenna on Twitter John on Instagram Outro by Victor Krause (send us yours!) Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here. UPDATE 10-1-19: The transcript of this episode can be found here.The post Idea Management first appeared on John August.

John and Craig welcome Alison Luhrs, a senior narrative designer at Wizards of the Coast to talk about fantasy world-building as a profession. It is a great conversation about what is probably a lot of listeners’ dream job. We also follow up on the WGA elections, John’s decision to cast a blind actress, and the universality of ice-cream truck wars. Links: The Shadows Casting Call John is looking for a 15 year old blind actress for the lead role — please help by sharing this link with anyone who might be a good fit! The Hollywood Disability Inclusion Toolkit: The RespectAbility Guide to Inclusion in the Entertainment Industry Scriptnotes, Ep 315: Big Screens, Big Money NaNoWriMo classroom kit Comfort and Joy 99 Problems by Ross Killeen The Black Mambas documentary Wizards of the Coast Twine Because Internet: Understanding the New Rules of Language by Gretchen McCulloch Alison Luhrs on Twitter or here for game related questions John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter John on Instagram Outro by Rajesh Naroth (send us yours!) Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here. UPDATE 9-12-19: The transcript of this episode can be found here.The post Fantasy Worldbuilding first appeared on John August.

John and Craig welcome Julia Louis-Dreyfus and David Mandel, two of the executive producers of HBO’s award-winning comedy series Veep. They discuss the writing process from blue-sky brainstorming to the final edit, how the show has evolved over the seasons, and striking the right tone during an unpredictable political climate. We also take a look at why unlikeable characters are important for conflict and what we can take away from the ending of Seinfeld. Links: Veep Julia Louis-Dreyfus David Mandel John August on Twitter The Shadows Casting Call John is looking for a 15-year-old blind actress for the lead role — please help by sharing this link with anyone who might be a good fit! Craig Mazin on Twitter Julia Louis-Dreyfus on Twitter David Mandel on Twitter John on Instagram Julia Louis-Dreyfus on Instagram Outro by Matthew Chilelli (send us yours!) Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here UPDATE 9-12-19: The transcript of this episode can be found here.The post The Veep Episode first appeared on John August.

John and Craig host How Would This Be a Movie with four stories in the news covering ice-cream truck wars, female rangers, and deadly in-laws, imagining how they could become feature films. We also answer listener questions about narrators, personal crises, and song titles. Links: The Shadows Casting Call John is looking for a 15 year old blind actress for the lead role — please help by sharing this link with anyone who might be a good fit! Bonus Episode, Chernobyl Podcast Scriptnotes Ep 50, How to Not Be Fat Decoder Ring: Ice-Cream Truck Wars by Willa Paskin The Pushcart War Akashinga Women Rangers Fight Poaching in Zimbabwe Phundundu Wildlife Area by Lindsay M. Smith My In-Laws Are Careless About My Deadly Food Allergy by Heather Havrilesky Game to Grow, support on Kickstarter here! National Puzzler’s League John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter John on Instagram Outro by Med Dyer (send us yours!) Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here UPDATE 8-27-2019 The transcript for this episode can be found here.The post Mushroom Powder first appeared on John August.

John and Craig tackle the question, “How do you know when you’re ready to write a given script?” They propose a list of details a writer should know before diving in, and look at why starting too soon can be a recipe for failure. (So can waiting too long.) We also discuss the WGA’s “refusal to negotiate” myth and answer questions about rewrites vs polishes, and whether writing a bad script could put you on a Do Not Hire list. Links: Myth of No Negotiation Deadline’s “Exclusive” on John’s Blogpost John Milton, Paradise Lost Monsters Creatures: A Young Adventurer’s Guide by Jim Zub Oreo Thins John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter John on Instagram Outro by Michael Karman (send us yours!) Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here UPDATE 8-27-2019 The transcript of this episode can be found here.The post Ready to Write first appeared on John August.

John moderates Breaking the Stigma, a panel on addiction and mental health with guests Gemma Baker (creator of CBS’s Mom), Dr. Corey Waller (specialist in pain, addiction and emergency medicine), Dr. Holly Daniels (specialist in eating disorders and mental health issues), and journalist Zachary Siegel. We discuss how addiction and mental health issues are portrayed in film and TV, more authentic ways of telling these stories, and how writers and creators can take care of their own mental health. Special thanks to our incredible panelists, plus Kate Folb, Marty Kaplan, and the entire team at Hollywood Health and Society! Links: Hollywood Health and Society 6 Balloons with Dave Franco Motivational Interviewing Narcan Follow Corey Waller on Twitter here. Follow Holly Daniels on Twitter here. Follow Zachary Siegel on Twitter here. Follow his project Changing the Narrative on Twitter here or using #ChangingtheNarrative. John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter John on Instagram Outro by Matthew Chilelli (send us yours!) Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here UPDATE 8-15-19: The transcript of this episode can be found here.The post Writing About Mental Health and Addiction first appeared on John August.

John and Craig welcome screenwriter Katie Silberman (Set It Up, Isn’t It Romantic and Booksmart) to discuss writing a two-hander, practicing dialogue, and how she got her start in Hollywood. We also follow up on ‘liked, not love’ and answer listener questions on character development. Links: We’re hosting a panel on Addiction & Mental Health organized by Hollywood, Health & Society Wed, July 31, 2019, 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM PDT. Watch the Facebook livestream starting at 7:15pm PDT. WGA West Unveils Officer Board Candidates Wednesday, Aug. 28 Candidates Night at the Writers Guild Theater Member meetings August 7th, 8th and 10th Booksmart Reunion Olivia Wilde Katie Silberman New Project Universal Pictures The Alamo Drafthouse Downtown LA Lupetti Pizzeria and In Sheep’s Clothing Hi-Fi Record Bar and Cafew Katie Silberman on Twitter John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter John on Instagram Outro by Mackey Landy (send us yours!) Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here. UPDATE 8-10-19 The transcript of this episode can be found here.The post Setting it Up with Katie Silberman first appeared on John August.

John and Craig host a new round of How Would This Be a Movie. Instead of three stories in the news, this time they tackle three articles from Wikipedia to look at what you get using just those facts versus using a more detailed article. We also answer listener questions about real-life subjects, showing your work and applying the Mazin method to television. Links: Addiction & Mental Health Panel organized by Hollywood, Health & Society Wed, July 31, 2019. Follow along with the live-stream here at 7:15pm PDT. Pinboard for bookmarks Wikipedia 8chan Destroyer of Worlds by Nicky Woolf Multiverse, Mirror Universe on Wikipedia Scientists are searching for a mirror universe. It could be sitting right in front of you. by Corey S. Powell Lisa Ben on Wikipedia The First Lesbian Magazine by Erica Davies Breezelblockhead on Instagram by Sam Marshall Eric Berlin’s Puzzle Snacks John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter John on Instagram Outro by Alex Winder (send us yours!) Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here. UPDATE 8-12-19: The transcript of this episode can be found here.The post Wikipedia Movies first appeared on John August.

John and Craig discuss whether and how heroes can understand themselves. Is self-awareness an intrinsic aspect of a character, or something they achieve over the course of the story? Both heroes and villains are often wrestling with their identity. We look at why it’s more difficult (and sometimes more rewarding) to explore these issues in screenwriting than prose fiction. Then it’s time for another round of the Three Page Challenge, followed by listener questions about meddling actors and producers. Thanks to everyone who submitted to the Three Page Challenge, especially our participants: Edith Rodriguez, Carolyn Getches, Hilary C. Gish, and Christine Hoang! Links: John and Craig’s panel on Addiction & Mental Health organized by Hollywood, Health & Society Wed, July 31, 2019, 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM PDT at SAG. Limited tickets, email: [email protected] Research Methods for Writers with Chernobyl’s Craig Mazin Wednesday, July 17, 2019 @ 7:00 PM Trumpcast Is Trump a Disease? A Medical Perspective Edith Rodriguez, The Days Ahead Carolyn Getches & Hilary C. Gish Formerly Fat Housewife Christine Hoang Fly Girl Bo Burnham’s Eighth Grade Script ‘Versing’ Verse as a Verb Screen Cleaner John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter John on Instagram Outro by Mackey Landy (send us yours!) Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here. UPDATE 7-19-19 The transcript for this episode can be found here.The post I Know You Are, But What Am I? first appeared on John August.

John and Craig tackle eight topics ranging from WGA negotiations to overlapping dialogue, to John’s new agency. We also follow up on Better Sex, Chernobyl, and Craig’s solo episode. Links: Scriptnotes Episode 406, Better Sex with Rachel Bloom Verve Talent and Literary Agency and John’s Tweets. Find Chernobyl scripts here! Watch Chernobyl, listen to the podcast here. WGA Financials Dots, Dashes, and Parentheticals Scriptnotes Episode 403, How to Write a Movie Aladdin Rodecaster Pro Sound Board Russian Doll John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter John on Instagram Outro by the Arbitrary Jukebox Experiment (send us yours!) Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here. UPDATE 7-10-19 the transcript for this episode can be found here.The post Rolling Dice first appeared on John August.

John and Craig are joined by attorney Ken Richman and Laurie Espinosa of the WGA West for a detailed discussion of screenwriting contracts. They look at what to expect, where you can negotiate, and what to watch out for. Follow along with the example contract here. Links: Example Contract Try the newest release of Highland 2.5. Order your Scriptnotes 400 shirts, sweatshirts, and tanks (Light) and (Dark)! John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter John on Instagram Outro by Alex Winder (send us yours!) Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here. UPDATE 7-11-19: The transcript of this episode can be found here.The post Understanding Your Feature Contract first appeared on John August.

John and Craig welcome back longtime friend of the podcast Rachel Bloom (co-creator and star of Crazy Ex-Girlfriend) to discuss how sex and sexuality are portrayed on both the big and small screen. They cover ways to approach sensitive topics in a writers room and the moments we still haven’t seen on screen. Links: * Rachel Bloom’s Realistic Sex [Interview](https://www.marieclaire.com/culture/a26453707/rachel-bloom-realistic-tv-sex-scenes/) * [Sex Education TV Series](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sex_Education_(TV_series)) * [Moan: Anonymous Essays on Female Orgasm](https://www.amazon.com/Moan-Essays-Female-Emma-Koenig/dp/1455540552) with foreword by Rachel Bloom * [How to Draw a Horse](https://www.newyorker.com/humor/daily-shouts/how-to-draw-a-horse) * [Dig it!](https://apps.apple.com/al/app/dig-it/id1453411110) on the App Store * [Hello from the Magic Tavern](https://hellofromthemagictavern.com/) * [A Very Fatal Murder](https://www.theonion.com/c/a-very-fatal-murder) * [Rachel on Tour](https://racheldoesstuff.com/tour/) * [John August](https://twitter.com/johnaugust) on Twitter * [Craig Mazin](https://twitter.com/clmazin) on Twitter * [Rachel Bloom](https://twitter.com/Racheldoesstuff) on Twitter * [John on Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/johnaugust/?hl=en) * [Outro](http://johnaugust.com/2013/scriptnotes-the-outros) by Jim Bond and James Llonch ([Send us yours!](http://johnaugust.com/2014/outros-needed)) Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode [here](http://traffic.libsyn.com/scriptnotes/scriptnotes_ep_406_better_sex_with_rachel_bloom2.mp3). **UPDATE 6-28-19:** The transcript of this episode can be found [here](https://johnaugust.com/2019/scriptnotes-ep-406-better-sex-with-rachel-bloom).The post Better Sex with Rachel Bloom first appeared on John August.

John and Craig host comedy titans Melissa McCarthy (Bridesmaids, The Heat, Spy), Ben Falcone (The Boss, Tammy), Kourtney Kang (Fresh Off the Boat), Rob McElhenney (Always Sunny in Philadelphia), and Alec Berg (Barry, Silicon Valley) onstage to discuss writing jokes, what they look for in a writing partner, and the heartbreak of movie endings. We also record our first ever Scriptnotes commercial and introduce a new game called ‘Bot or Not.’ Recorded live from the Ace Hotel in Los Angeles. Thanks to Hollywood Heart for organizing this event and to a great audience! Links: Thanks for joining us Melissa McCarthy, Ben Falcone, Kourtney Kang, Rob McElhenney, and Alec Berg! Learn more about Hollywood Heart. Donate here! Buy special edition ‘Camp Scriptnotes’ T-shirts to benefit Hollywood Heart here! John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter Melissa McCarthy on Twitter Ben Falcone on Twitter Kourtney Kang on Twitter Rob McElhenney on Twitter Alec Berg on Twitter John on Instagram Outro by Rajesh Naroth (answer to the trivia question: who holds the record for most listener outros) (send us yours!) Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here. UPDATE 6-21-19: The transcript of this episode can be found here.The post Live at the Ace Hotel first appeared on John August.

John talks with Charlie Brooker (creator, writer, and executive producer of Black Mirror) about his groundbreaking series and the opportunities and challenges of writing an anthology. We also touch on the nature of reality, the difficulty of reflecting culture while you influence it, and experimental storytelling. Our live show is in two days on June 13th, buy your tickets now! Links: Scriptnotes LIVE this Thursday, June 13th at the Ace Hotel with Melissa McCarthy, Ben Falcone, Alec Berg, Rob McElhenney, and Kourtney Kang, buy your tickets here! Black Mirror La Cabina Russian Doll Money Heist Matthew Zalkind John’s Voice Twin Baba is You Order your Scriptnotes 400 shirts, sweatshirts, and tanks (Light) and (Dark)! John August on Twitter Charlie Brooker on Twitter John on Instagram Outro by Mackey Landy (send us yours!) Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here. UPDATE 6-21-19: The transcript of this episode can be found here.The post The One with Charlie Brooker first appeared on John August.

In a Scriptnotes first, Craig hosts a solo episode presenting his general theory on screenwriting. He covers the central dramatic argument, the ‘why’ behind plot points, and of course, provides some umbrage on common script diagrams. Good luck, and go torture your heroes! Links: Scriptnotes LIVE on June 13th at the Ace Hotel with Melissa McCarthy, Ben Falcone, Alec Berg, Rob McElhenney, and Kourtney Kang, buy your tickets here! Aristotle’s Poetics José Fernández Lava, Pixar Short Finding Nemo Order your Scriptnotes 400 shirts, sweatshirts, and tanks (Light) and (Dark)! John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter John on Instagram Outro by Matthew Chilelli (send us yours!) Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here. UPDATE 6-10-19: The transcript of this episode can be found here.The post How to Write a Movie first appeared on John August.

John and Craig discuss stakes, how to create them and what that means for your character. They also talk a little about Aladdin, the Game of Thrones ending, and of course, the agency stuff. Don’t forget to join us for our live show in Los Angeles on June 13th with special guests including Alec Berg (Barry, Silicon Valley), Rob McElhenney (It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia) and Kourtney Kang (Fresh Off the Boat). Tickets are going fast! Links: Scriptnotes LIVE Buy your tickets here! Order your Scriptnotes 400 shirts, sweatshirts, and tanks (Light) and (Dark)! Aladdin Trailer in theaters now! How to Invent Everything by Ryan North PANDA Magazine by Foggy Brume Find past episodes here, Scriptnotes Digital Seasons are also now available! John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter John on Instagram Outro by Matthew Chilelli (send us yours!) Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here. UPDATE 5-30-19: The transcript of this episode can be found here.The post How Do You Like Your Stakes? first appeared on John August.

John and Craig introduce a new segment: The Scriptnotes Pitch Session! They listen to five listeners’ 90-second pitches and share their feedback on substance and style. We also discuss the implications of Verve signing the WGA agreement and get special insight on an important creative decision in Chernobyl. Join us for our live show in Los Angeles on June 13th with special guests including Alec Berg (Barry, Silicon Valley) and Rob McElhenney (It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia). Tickets are going fast! Links: Scriptnotes LIVE on June 13th at the Ace Hotel with Alec Berg, Rob McElhenney, buy your tickets here! Order your Scriptnotes 400 shirts, sweatshirts, and tanks (Light) and (Dark)! WGA Start Button Video John August and Michele Mulroney discussing Issues Affecting Screenwriters Verve Signs WGA’s Code of Conduct, Citing ‘Meaningful Dialogue’ With Clients WGA-Verve Code of Conduct Agreement Pitch Session selections: Karen Welsh You’re What?!, Hayley Grgurich Uncertain Texas, Jake Arky How to Make a Man, Guy Patton Sinnerweb, Laura Beck Hardcore Vegans Blueprint: The Evolutionary Origins of a Good Society by Nikolas Christakis Donate to Chernobyl Children International Watch Chernobyl on HBO and listen to The Chernobyl Podcast with Craig and Peter Sagal Find past episodes here, Scriptnotes Digital Seasons are also now available! Thank you to everyone who submitted to the pitch session! If you’d like to be considered in the next Pitch Session, submit your entry here. John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter John on Instagram Outro by Jonathan Mann (send us yours!) Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here. UPDATE 5-30-19: The transcript of this episode can be found here.The post You Got Verve first appeared on John August.

John and Craig welcome back writer/director Chris McQuarrie (Valkyrie, Jack Reacher, the last two Mission: Impossibles) to celebrate the 400th episode with a new round of ‘This Kind of Movie.’ Given our success saving the romantic comedy, we focus on other movie genres that aren’t getting made anymore and discuss how to bring them back. From sports comedies to erotic thrillers, we examine the classics of each genre and find ways to approach making these films today. Links: Order your Scriptnotes 400 shirts, sweatshirts, and tanks (Light) and (Dark)! Join us for Scriptnotes LIVE on June 13th at the Ace Hotel to benefit Hollywood Heart. Buy your tickets here! Watch Chernobyl on HBO The Chernobyl Podcast with Craig and Peter Sagal Scriptnotes episode 300, From Writer to Writer-Director with Chris McQuarrie LectroFan High Fidelity White Noise Sound Machine One Clue Crossword eBags and AViiQ Portable Laptop Stand Find past episodes and Scriptnotes Digital Seasons are also now available! Check out the Scriptnotes Episode Guide Submit to the Pitch Session here! Chris McQuarrie on Twitter John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter John on Instagram Outro by Rajesh Naroath (send us yours!) Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here. UPDATE 5-24-19: The transcript of this episode can be found here.The post Movies They Don’t Make Anymore first appeared on John August.

John and Craig talk to an audience of development executives about the experience of getting notes as a writer. They cover why these conversations kick in our fight or flight responses, how to frame notes through story, and ways to motivate writers towards a creative vision. We take questions from the audience and discuss ‘the bad pitch,’ likable characters, and how to stay friends with a writer after a breakup. Links: Episode 99, Psychotheraphy for Screenwriters Episode 394, Broken but Sympathetic with Mari Heller Now accepting recommendations for updating the Listener’s Guide Submit to the Pitch Session here Watch Chernobyl May 6th and listen to The Chernobyl Podcast with Craig and Peter Sagal John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter John on Instagram Outro by Mackey Landry (send us yours!) Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here. UPDATE 5-14-19: The transcript of this episode can be found here.The post Notes on Notes first appeared on John August.

John and Craig present a special clip show with craft-focused segments hand-picked by Aline Brosh Mckenna. We’ll start by asking ‘Where to Begin?’ in Episode 174 and explore how to enter a story. Then we’ll discuss establishing setting and perspective in episode 45. Finally we’ll take a look at voice and the four rules to creating authentic dialogue. Links: Scriptnotes, Ep 174 Hacks, Transference, and Where to Begin Scriptnotes, Ep 45 Setting, Perspective, and Terrible Numbers Scriptnotes, 37 Let’s Talk About Dialogue Find more episodes from the vault. Scriptnotes Digital Seasons are also now available! Check out the Scriptnotes Episode Guide, now also accepting recommendations for updating the Listener’s Guide. Submit to the Pitch Session here! Watch Chernobyl May 6th and listen to The Chernobyl Podcast with Craig and Peter Sagal John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter John on Instagram Outro by Luke Davis (send us yours!) Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here. Find the original transcripts here: Ep 174, Hacks Transference and Where to Begin Transcript, Ep 45, Setting, Perspective and Terrible Numbers Transcript, and Ep 37, Let’s Talk About Dialogue TranscriptThe post The Curated Craft Compendium first appeared on John August.

John and Craig welcome back Andrea Berloff (World Trade Center, Straight Outta Compton) to talk all things sound: how it works on the page, on the stage, and in the mixing room. Andrea shares her experience working with sound for her upcoming directing debut, The Kitchen. We also follow up on WGA developments and deep dive Craig’s feelings on matzah. Links: WGA Lawsuit #WGAMix led by screenwriter Daniel Zucker Mad Max Fury Road Clip Can You Ever Forgive Me? Clip The story of the “Nerds” musical article by Seth Abramovitch Headspace’s Meditation for Sleep Accepting recommendations for updating the Listener’s Guide Submit to the Pitch Session here John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter John on Instagram Find past episodes Scriptnotes Digital Seasons are also now available! Outro by Thomas Johnstone (send us yours!) Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here. UPDATE 5-2-19: The transcript of this episode can be found here.The post The Sound Episode first appeared on John August.

John and Craig talk big numbers, from the latest developments in the WGA/agency situation, to the announcement of Disney+ and the final installment of the Star Wars non-ology. We also answer listener questions about writers who aren’t in the guild and how to spend your time writing. Links: Timelapse of the Entire Universe by John Boswell Disney+ News The Rise of Skywalker teaser What It’s Like to Grow Up With More Money Than You’ll Ever Spend Anita May Rosenstein Campus of Los Angeles LGBT Center The Lab Rat Escape Room Accepting recommendations for updating the Listener’s Guide Submit to the Pitch Session here John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter John on Instagram Find past episodes Scriptnotes Digital Seasons are also now available! Outro by Lou Stone Borenstein (send us yours!) Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here. UPDATE 4-23-19: The transcript of this episode can be found here.The post Big Numbers first appeared on John August.

John and Craig explore the challenge of creating a movie with a group of heroes and multiple points of view. They’ll discuss options for structuring competing storylines, when to check back in with characters, and managing personal versus group stakes. We also answer listener questions on a bunch of topics including things Craig tweets! Links: Accepting recommendations for updating the Listener’s Guide Arlo Finch Book Tour – Meet and Greet at The Briar Patch in Bangor, Maine on Thursday, April 11 at 5pm Rachel Wenitsky’s “The Hot Character Who Everyone Thinks Had It Easy Finally Reveals Their Painful Backstory” For cramped New York, an expanding dining scene in the LA Times Submit to the Pitch Session here John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter John on Instagram Find past episodes Scriptnotes Digital Seasons are also now available! Outro by David Jon Banks (send us yours!) Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here. UPDATE 4-17-19: The transcript of this episode can be found here.The post All in this Together first appeared on John August.

John and Craig welcome back Can You Ever Forgive Me? director Marielle Heller to discuss the challenge of creating a hero the audience can root for while also establishing that the character must change. We also answer questions from listeners about conflicting notes, meet-and-greets, and true-life stories. Links: WGA Video Explaining ATA Negotiations Can You Ever Forgive Me? A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood Scriptnotes 212, Diary of a First Time Director with Mari Heller Schlage Locks American Crossword Password Tournament Online–let us know if you unseat Craig! What the Constitution Means to Me by Heidi Schreck We’re hiring a coder! If you’re interested please send an email to [email protected] Submit entries for The Scriptnotes Pitch Session here. John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter John on Instagram Find past episodes Scriptnotes Digital Seasons are also now available! Outro by James Llonch and Jim Bond (send us yours!) Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here. UPDATE 4-5-19: The transcript of this episode can be found hereThe post Broken but Sympathetic first appeared on John August.

John welcomes WGA negotiation committee members Chris Keyser and Angelina Burnett to answer listener questions on what’s happening and what to expect. They offer insight into the history of the issues and new tools the Guild is rolling out for staffing season. We also follow up on the Disney/Fox 2000 merger, why we won’t be saying ‘baby writers’ anymore, and upcoming meeting dates for the WGA. Links: The Disney – Fox Merger Upcoming WGA Meetings and Voting Info Ask a Native New Yorker by Jake Dobkin Patriot on Amazon Money Heist on Netflix My Brilliant Friend on HBO We’re hiring a coder! If you’re interested please send an email to [email protected] You can now order Arlo Finch in the Lake of the Moon Submit entries for The Scriptnotes Pitch Session here. T-shirts are available here! We’ve got new designs, including Colored Revisions, Karateka, and Highland2. John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter John on Instagram Find past episodes Scriptnotes Digital Seasons are also now available! Outro by Chuck Eyler (send us yours!) Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here. UPDATE 4-5-19: The transcript of this episode can be found hereThe post Twenty Questions About the Agency Agreement first appeared on John August.

John and Craig examine the final moment in movies, what they do and why they change so often. We also take on vaccines, corruption, and extreme weather in another installment of ‘How Would This be a Movie’ and follow up on important upcoming meetings for the WGA. Links: Aladdin in theaters May 24th! Chernobyl first episode on HBO May 6th. Unvaccinated Boy Got Tetanus, and Ohio teen defies parents and gets vaccine. Trump grounds Boeing 737 planes Extreme Avalanches in Colorado and Bomb Cyclone Storm Humblewood Campaign Setting for DND kickstarter Why Humans started saying “f” and “v” New Highland 2 videos and tutorials We’re hiring a coder! If you’re interested please send an email to [email protected] You can now order Arlo Finch in the Lake of the Moon Submit entries for The Scriptnotes Pitch Session here. T-shirts are available here! We’ve got new designs, including Colored Revisions, Karateka, and Highland2. John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter John on Instagram Find past episodes Scriptnotes Digital Seasons are also now available! Outro by James Llonch and Jim Bond (send us yours!) Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here. UPDATE 3-25-19: The transcript of this episode can be found here.The post The Final Moment first appeared on John August.

John and Craig welcome back Aline Brosh McKenna to talk about what she learned producing four seasons of Crazy Ex-Girlfriend. Aline shares the importance of trusting your gut, building school spirit, and empowering the voices around you. We’ll also talk about Emma Thompson, agency-affiliated producers, and more. Links: Emma Thompson’s open letter to Skydance. Episode 175 Transcript A Very English Scandal Birdcage 2 Instagram #jackwawa New Highland 2 videos and tutorials We’re hiring a coder! If you’re interested please send an email to [email protected] You can now order Arlo Finch in the Lake of the Moon Submit entries for The Scriptnotes Pitch Session here. T-shirts are available here! We’ve got new designs, including Colored Revisions, Karateka, and Highland2. John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter Aline Brosh McKennaon Twitter John on Instagram Find past episodes Scriptnotes Digital Seasons are also now available! Outro by Victor Krause (send us yours!) Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here. UPDATE 4-2-18: The transcript of this episode can be found here.The post When It’s All Said and Done first appeared on John August.

John and Craig proudly welcome back former Scriptnotes producer Megan McDonnell to tell her journey from film student to getting staffed on her first television show. We then review a batch of Three Page Challenge submissions, covering how to keep your audience engaged, build tension, and earn interesting characters. Plus, follow up on the WGA and recent Bones ruling. Thank you to our Three Page Challenge participants, and special thanks to Megan McDonnell for all of your work on Scriptnotes! Links: The Bones Decision The Peter Stark Program Three Pages by Christopher Cramer Three Pages by David Koutsouridis Three Pages by Carrie Wong and Herman Ming Megan’s Desk Setup Light Up Phone Charger Russian doll starring Natasha Lyonne Submit to the Three Page Challenge here Submit to the Pitch Session here T-shirts are available here! We’ve got new designs, including Colored Revisions, Karateka, and Highland2. John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter John on Instagram Find past episodes Scriptnotes Digital Seasons are also now available! Outro The Stuart Special by James Llonch & Jim Bond (send us yours!) Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here. UPDATE 3-8-19: The transcript of this episode can be found here.The post Getting Staffed first appeared on John August.

John and Craig invite back Chris Keyser, co-chair of the WGA’s 2019 Agency Agreement negotiating committee, to discuss the issues. Specifically, they look at the difference between “packaging” and “packaging fees,” and the impact of agencies acting as writers’ employers. John then welcomes Michelle Satter to introduce Co//ab, the new online community from Sundance. Michelle shares how they’ve made Sundance digitally accessible and what she looks for in applicants to its prestigious labs. Links: WGA Agency Agreement 2019 WGA President David A. Goodman Speech Agency Campaign FAQ’s Co//ab at Sundance Acapella App for iOS Inkubator Less by Andrew Sean Greer Chris Keyser on Twitter Michelle Satter on Twitter John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter John on Instagram Find past episodes Scriptnotes Digital Seasons are also now available! Submit entries for The Scriptnotes Pitch Session here. You can now order Arlo Finch in the Lake of the Moon T-shirts are available here! We’ve got new designs, including Colored Revisions, Karateka, and Highland2. Outro is Epic Jingle by XLNYC (send us yours!) Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here. UPDATE 3-1-2019 The transcript of this episode can be found hereThe post The Future of the Industry first appeared on John August.

John welcomes Matt Selman, executive producer of The Simpsons, for a deep dive look at the three-year process of developing a single episode from initial idea to the finished product. We discuss the role of the writers room, the table read, producer notes, animatics, and the impact computer animation has had on The Simpsons workflow. Set in the 90’s, “The Clown Stays in the Picture” spoofs high concept comedies, artist narcissism, creative insecurity, and the magic of movie-making. Links: The Simpsons, Season 30, Episode 40:The Clown Stays in the Picture Duly Noted, the official Scriptnotes Aftershow hosted by Matt Selman. The Defender Shield John’s One Cool Thing You can now order Arlo Finch in the Lake of the Moon Submit entries for The Scriptnotes Pitch Session here. T-shirts are available here! We’ve got new designs, including Colored Revisions, Karateka, and Highland2. John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter John on Instagram Matt Selman on Twitter Find past episodes Scriptnotes Digital Seasons are also now available! Outro by Matthew Chilelli (send us yours!) Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here. UPDATE 2-22-19: The transcript of this episode can be found here.The post The Clown Stays in the Picture first appeared on John August.

John and Craig head north to host Scriptnotes Live in Seattle. They welcome Emily Zulauf to discuss the process of pitching projects at Pixar, creating stories with heart out of pure misery, and when to admit you “don’t have it” and start over. We also hold our own Open Writing Assignment and play a game with the audience to create two new movie pitches. Then we answer questions about theme and why you should move to LA. Thank you to the Northwest Screenwriters Guild and TheFilmSchool for hosting us! Links: Thank you, Northwest Screenwriters Guild and TheFilmSchool for making this event happen! And thank you to our incredible guest: Emily Zulauf! Scriptnotes, 225: Only haters hate rom-coms with Tess Morris Michael Arndt on Endings Amy Poehler as Joy in INSIDE OUT The Man In the High Castle Exit The Game Bad Blood by John Carreyrou T-shirts are available here! We’ve got new designs, including Colored Revisions, Karateka, and Highland2. John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter Emily Zulauf on Twitter John on Instagram Find past episodes Scriptnotes Digital Seasons are also now available! Outro “Jazz Waltz” by Matthew Chilelli (send us yours!) Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here. UPDATE 2-21-19: The transcript of this episode can be found hereThe post Seattle Live Show 2019 first appeared on John August.

John and Craig offer a special reminder to guild members to attend one of the upcoming WGA Agency Agreement meetings. Links: Scriptnotes, 347: Conflict of Interest RSVP for a meeting WGA Agency Agreement Meeting: Saturday, February 9 at 10:30 am at Writer’s Guild Theatre in Beverly Hills WGA Agency Agreement Meeting: Wednesday, February 13 at 7:30 pm at Sheraton Universal by Universal Studios WGA East NYC Meeting: Tuesday, February 12 John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter John on Instagram Find past episodes Scriptnotes Digital Seasons are also now available! Outro by Matthew Chilelli (send us yours!). Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here.The post Scriptnotes, Extra: The Agency Agreement first appeared on John August.

John and Craig host a live show at the WGA Theatre with a deep dive look at The Princess Bride. They discuss how the “abridged” structure brings us only the best parts of the story and what this means for the characters and world: less exposition and more time for the fire swamp, R.O.U.S., and the pit of despair. From the frame story to the myth of the Dread Pirate Roberts, The Princess Bride shaped decades of screenwriters but would be inconceivable to produce today. William Goldman’s 1973 cult classic delighted audiences with a fresh take on fairy tale tropes, and also managed to convince viewers that storytelling is ultimately an act of love. Links: The Seattle Live Show is on February 6th! You can now preorder Arlo Finch in the Lake of the Moon or come to the launch event on February 9th. Submit entries for The Scriptnotes Pitch Session here. The Princess Bride: S. Morgenstern’s Classic Tale of True Love and High Adventure novel The Princess Bride Trailer The Dread Pirate Roberts The Bechdel Test T-shirts are available here! We’ve got new designs, including Colored Revisions, Karateka, and Highland2. John August on Twitter Craig Mazin on Twitter John on Instagram Find past episodes Scriptnotes Digital Seasons are also now available! Outro by Cole Parzenn (send us yours!) Email us at [email protected] You can download the episode here. UPDATE 2-13-19: The transcript of this episode can be found here.The post The Princess Bride first appeared on John August.