Script-Table Movies
Welcome to the experiment!
We wanted to create a fun, challenging process that is different then the normal thing… the idea is to deepen our experience, work, better our craft, get IMDb credits, show off, work fast and efficient, practice working under the gun, and get more experience.
Here is what we have so far…
4 writers are chosen. 1 weekend. Cannes here we come!
We are given: the actors, the genre, the effects, the location and the basic page count.
Raw idea: Each writer begins a story based on achosen genre. Within the group they decide on the agreed upon and available locations, the talent and any special effects that the editor may want to try. After 12 minutes the scripts (on paper) get turned over to the next writer. That next writer reads and ponders and adds to the script they were just given. They must work their best within the genre of which it is presented and add what they feel will propel the story forward.
After an hour and half or so we are DONE. Much creative talk is had. The writers then vote on the one script they feel is the one to go into production.
Each writer is free to have their script and do what they want to with it.
The chosen script and the writer that is awarded must then go and convert the script to proper format, edit it and prepare it for the production team the following day. The writer must also create the logline, 250 word synopsis, character descriptions, and title. The writer must also supply the end and opening credit text to send to the editor. Since this writer is going to get the main screenwriting credit we ask they supply catering the following day.
The writer is NOT the director. Our goal is master the art of collaboration. One of the other player/ writers is the director. Based on experience, the writers are assigned production roles for the following shoot.
From here the small production team is sorted out and plans are made THAT night. The main writer can go off and get to work while the reaming three tackle the task of producing and planning.
The shoot happens. The Director works with the actors the following morning. The Actors must be ready and BORN for this! The Director creates his bond with his/ her actors. The DP comes in with ideas.
Meanwhile… the producer is organizing the crew and making final preparations.
mistakes are made…
Light plots are made, equipment is there – a short movie happens. Experience is happening.
As the challenge continues, the footage is handed off to the editor late Sat. night or is being editing along the way.
Having someone to do the score, credits, coverbox, titles, graphics… This will be a major focus. The post and delivery to festivals is high on the list.
Once these things are in place we upload and stage at “withoutabox”. I will pay to send the film to 1 to 2 IMDb worthy festivals. This is key. The IMDb credit is very key as roles are dulled out.
We are looking for sponsors. Contact: brent@blankstageproductions.com
Rough Cut for “Beggars Choice”.
Poor Boy from Byron Conrad Erwin on Vimeo.
Reasons for Being.
Below are reasons for creating and developing this process.
- EXPERIENCE: The experience of actually working ON a project is immeasurable for all parties involved. Dealing in real-time with all the natural elements and challenges of production from; scheduling, producing, directing, casting, shooting, editing and delivery on a project everyone cases about.
- CURRENT WORK: These shorts showcase our current work, the latest in lighting, camera and talent level. The shorts show that we are always working on our craft, improving and developing our skills.
- EXPOSURE: These shorts will compete nationally and internationally in the film festivals and provide our team amazing exposure.
- CREDIT: Because each film will compete in the festival circuit, each member receives key IMDb credit.
- NETWORKING: Often times we all hire each other for paying gigs, and its easier to recall someone you JUST worked with when the time comes to build a new team.
- FUN: We LOVE what we do! Being on set for me beats playing sports, hanging out, etc.
