A major new feature is introduced in the 4th edition of Screenwright. I am adding it in response to feedback I've received.
Several readers have pointed out that the rewriting section, while good as far as it goes -- and many users really appreciate being able to look over my shoulder as I write -- does not really deal with the major conceptual changes that can happen in the life and development of a screenplay. They are right.
So I started thinking about how best to communicate this. I decided to give examples from my own work.
I've therefore added two complete screenplays that together demonstrate how much change can happen in script development.
The first is my 1998 screenplay Between Heaven and Hell. This was optioned by Never A Dull Moment Productions. For a year I rewrote the script under the direction of a producer, resulting in Earthly Desires. This script also is included in its entirely.
In addition to the screenplays, I've included a short commentary on my own take of this experience, in which a screenplay was optioned and then changed radically from what it was to begin with. Together, these three new documents provide a reality trip, a look at the incredible fluidity of the screenwriting life, where change often is the name of the game. I think readers will like this new feature. Let me know.
Otherwise I continue to add movie analyses and to touch up sections when I feel I have something important to add. If you have suggestions for new features in Screenwright, I welcome them.
Sales continue to be good. Screenwright lives!
Charles Deemer
August 1, 2000
8/00