Post-strike update
Last night I went out for beers with my picketing team from the Van Ness gate. I hadn’t spoken with any of them since the end of the strike, so it was nice to catch up, and see them in clothes not specifically chosen for walking in the cold.
Remarkably, it was the first conversation I’d had about the strike in over a week. After three months of talking (and blogging) about nothing other than the AMPTP, the NegComm and picketing schedules, it’s surprising how completely the strike has vanished off the radar.
With the official contract ratification results due today, it feels like a good time to take stock of where various projects have ended up in a post-strike universe.
The web series
We’re finishing editing on the web pilot I shot at the start of the month. Once it’s done, the financiers will go off and look for distribution and advertising partners. If we can find the right combination, we’ll aim to shoot a block of episodes this summer.
Shazam!
I spent the weekend barricaded at the Disney Grand Californian working on the next draft of Shazam! I’d gotten the studio and producer notes just before the strike, so this was my first chance to address them. It was great having a three-month break from the script, because it meant I could look at it with fresh eyes.
There are some web reports out of WonderCon about a possible title change to something longer and more Harry Potter-ish. Nothing’s decided yet. Obviously, one of the challenges with the property is that an audience will automatically assume that the hero’s name is Shazam, when it’s not.1
Dreamworks project
When the strike began, I was halfway through the first draft of an unannounced project for Dreamworks, with a major star and director involved. Without being too specific, Something Happened unrelated to the strike which made it very unlikely that our movie could (or should) get made. So one of the first conversations I had after the strike was with the producer and director to figure out whether or not to proceed. After about 15 phone calls, many involving agents and executives, the decision was made to kill the project.
It was the right choice. While it’s hard to walk away from 55 pages, finishing the next 55 while almost certain that they could never be filmed would be even more dispiriting. As I write this, it’s not clear whether I’ll segue into a different project for the studio, or just write them a check for the money they’ve already paid me. Either way, I feel better getting to work on a script that is much likelier to become a movie.
Heroes: Origins
My hunch is that this spin-off series will stay in the deep-freeze for a while, maybe never to be thawed out. Tim Kring has said in interviews that the priority is getting next season’s plotline (”Villains”) ready for launch, as it should be. If Origins is resurrected at some point, I’d be happy to direct my episode.
- Shazam is the wizard who bestows his powers; the guy in the cape is Captain Marvel. For legal reasons, the movie can’t be called Captain Marvel. ↩
February 26th, 2008 at 11:01 am
I’ve been to the Grand Californian, but never thought about it as a writing getaway. Is is quiet enough with all the kiddies and families about? Or do you go there so that the rest of the family can have fun and forgive you for sequestering yourself all weekend? Is there a grand poo-bah suite? I assumed most of the rooms are about packing kids in bunk beds, etc.
February 26th, 2008 at 11:02 am
What if Shazam were a shape-shifting scaly skinned green guy?
February 26th, 2008 at 11:16 am
I just went back to their website. I missed the concierge view rooms. I could stand to be locked in one of those for two days.
February 26th, 2008 at 12:38 pm
At least with Shazam! you’ve got a trailer with Captain Marvel shouting it at the end, setting it up pretty easily, right? The whole mess of legality surrounding Captain Marvel is so ridiculous, and at the same time completely understandable. It’s sad that legality keeps so many things locked up, so this or that perfect villain can’t be in this or that movie/game about such and such superhero. Oh well.
Sorry about the killed project. That’s too bad.
February 26th, 2008 at 12:41 pm
@Chris: Yes, I think the first trailer has a great opportunity to help clarify that SHAZAM! is what he says, not who he is. But for the occasional moviegoer, that might not be enough.
February 26th, 2008 at 1:15 pm
I’m ever-so-slightly surprised that it’s even an issue. I though the whole trademark issue was specifically limited to comic books.
And how Harry Potterish are we talking about? I refuse to see “Billy Batson and the Secret of Shazam” on general principles.
February 26th, 2008 at 1:46 pm
I totally forgot about Heroes: Origins. By god, how could I forget about that, I guess that I’m too excited about the fact that there’s gonna be 22 episodes next season. I guess that I get to see how good of a director you are when I watch Then Nines tomorrow. Wait, what am I saying, you are good director no matter what. Any one who can write can direct, right.
February 26th, 2008 at 1:48 pm
For some reason I immediately thought Shazam was a sequel to that movie a while back with Shaquille O’Neal in it (and my opinion of you dropped a little). I now see that that movie was Kazaam.
I’d say change the name.
February 26th, 2008 at 2:53 pm
I think the Grand Californian would be a wonderful place to write. But then again, I just want to be able to afford to stay at the Grand Californian. I guess I have an “Arts and Crafts” fetish.
John, I live vicariously through you.
February 26th, 2008 at 2:59 pm
Sorry about the cancellation of the Dreamworks project. How awful to be writing a terrific script about the U.S. invading Grenada, when the U.S. REALLY DOES invade Grenada. And of course they do it wrong, with a dull third act. It takes Clint Eastwood to save the project. Today’s script would have Vin Diesel invade Catalina, going after drug gangs smuggling dope in on glass bottom boats.
Your blog is interesting and valuable for screenwriters. I have created a site that is useless, but I hope an entertaining break for screenwriters. It’s a web mockumentary, such as Christopher Guest might do (if his movies ever required a script). Take a look at http://www.screenplaywire.com.
February 26th, 2008 at 3:26 pm
@Michael Bell:
As I was telling a writer yesterday, The Grand Californian is to Arts and Crafts what The Venetian in Vegas is to actual Venice. It’s both mockery and tribute. But I like it, much the same way I like Toon Town.
February 26th, 2008 at 4:14 pm
Sorry to hear about the Dreamworks screenplay.
Great to hear about Shazam. I wonder why the name change was brought up?
February 26th, 2008 at 5:15 pm
hey john. I know that the trademark situation with the name “Captain Marvel” prevents DC from using it on the cover of any comic book. I was wondering how much you think the marketing for the movie will be straight-jacketed by similar legalities. I know they can’t call the movie “Captain Marvel”. But can they put his name on the posters? The action figures? The t-shirts?
Also, has your drafting on the project been influenced by the knowledge that the Rock is playing Black Adam (or so I hear)?
Thanks.
February 26th, 2008 at 8:14 pm
Wait — if a studio kills a project, you have to give back your screenwriting fee? You wrote 55 pages — it’s not your fault the project isn’t going forward (is it?).
Do you have to return the money because you haven’t actually finished a draft? Or is the reason more specific to this particular deal? Or is this (I hope not) standard operating procedure (”Here’s the script” “Sorry, deal’s off — give us our money back”)?
Why did I think the first payment was pretty much yours no matter what?
February 27th, 2008 at 12:00 am
Thats great. You’re working on Shazaam. That was a good Sat.morning Tv show. I enjoyed that show a lot. I noticed that youtube has some videos of Captain Marvel and Superman. Other than that I haven’t seen Captain Marvel anywhere else on TV.
Good luck on that.
February 27th, 2008 at 4:04 am
i wanna know the answer to that too…
February 27th, 2008 at 6:22 am
Whatever happened to Bob: The Musical? I was very excited about that one, particularly as I’ve just recently started coming to terms with the fact that I actually do like musicals.
February 27th, 2008 at 7:56 am
@David:
When you reach a certain point in your career, maintaining relationships becomes more important than one paycheck. The Something Which Happened wasn’t my fault, but it wasn’t theirs, either.
I can’t be more specific about the project, but trust me, there were a lot of really complicated issues: actors and producers and directors with whom I have longstanding ties.
But in general, you’re right: If the studio calls you up halfway through the first draft and says to stop writing, you’re not going to give up the money. But your lawyer is going to get involved, and they may ask for what you’ve written.
And keep in mind, I’m stacked up on projects. So there is a benefit for me clearing the way to write the next thing.
@Patrick:
Here’s the short history of Bob: The Musical.
Me: Here’s your script! Producers: We hate this! You suck! Hack!
I was bummed, until the next two writers told me the same thing happened with them. For what it’s worth, I think the movie is particularly viable after the success of Enchanted. But I won’t be involved.
February 27th, 2008 at 7:57 am
David, the same thing jumped out at me when I read John’s post. Seems odd. If the studio gave him a writing assignment and he was halfway through a first draft, why on earth should he have to give the money back when they suddenly decide to kill the project? I don’t think that kind of thing would happen in any other business. Can you imagine telling an architect to write you a check after you decide, halfway through them completing their work, that you’ve changed your mind?
February 27th, 2008 at 8:41 am
^^^It’s a puzzlement because you don’t understand business relationships. You can keep the cash, and are entitled to it, but doing so would jeopardize future work for those people. And Hollywood is a very small place.
He would instantly be known as “the John who kept the money”
February 27th, 2008 at 10:00 am
“The John Who Kept the Money� would make an awesome movie title.
February 27th, 2008 at 10:42 am
I thought the same thing Dance did about the Shaq movie.
I don’t think that’s an association you want your film to have.
February 27th, 2008 at 6:03 pm
“Thats great. You’re working on Shazaam.”
Shazam. Spell it wrong and he gets extra powers. In addition to: Solomon’s wisdom Hercules’ strength Atlas’ stamina Zeus’ power Achilles’ courage and Mercury’s speed
…the extra “A” would give him, I dunno, the musical talent of Apollo. Or the real estate savvy of Abraham (if Solomon can get in there).
February 27th, 2008 at 7:31 pm
Oh, yeah, relationships. I dig it. It was just that your mention of writing out a refund check was so casual — I wasn’t sure what to read into it.
Of course, it would be nice if “reaching a certain point in your career” meant you got to keep the money without damaging relationships — but I guess pay or play only works without reprocussions for actors and directors.
Anyway, it sounds like this project ended with everyone on the same page. I’m sure if someone tried to totally screw you, it would be a different story.
February 28th, 2008 at 11:41 am
Paul Atkinson says: “The John Who Kept the Money� would make an awesome movie title.
Heavens! I’m already picturing a prostitute rom-com done in 60s live action Disney style (a la “Moon Pilot”).
Stop me…
February 29th, 2008 at 9:05 am
The Something Which Happened = Ledger
February 29th, 2008 at 4:34 pm
@Anonymous (#26):
Nope, not at all related to Heath Ledger’s death. But that’s a very good example of the kind of wildcard event that can easily derail a movie, even at the scripting stage.
March 2nd, 2008 at 11:32 am
Shazam and Heroes! Hope they both work out! SUCH FUN!!!!! Enjoy! O Zephyr winds that blow on high, lift ME now that I can fly!! Thanks for picketing and blogging for us. Have so much fun!
March 3rd, 2008 at 9:58 am
Peter Sagel said in an interview that it may be “Billy Batson and the Legend of Shazam!” And the site where I read about it went straight to the Harry Potter comparison.
Not crazy about it, doesn’t sound like a superhero movie at all - why not just stick with Shazam?
March 4th, 2008 at 4:21 am
Came across this and immediately thought of John: http://icanhascheezburger.files.wordpress.com/2008/02/funny-pictures-cat-punches-dog.jpg
March 4th, 2008 at 10:25 am
If we’re voting here, I want him to say “Shazam!” a LOT — and I want him to live in a big, lumbering RV. Just like the TV show. Please.
Now, for those who like their superheroes more literately critically analyzed (like me): http://www.newyorker.com/reporting/2008/03/10/080310fa_fact_chabon
March 6th, 2008 at 9:20 am
yippee! The Nines is out on DVD here in Ireland on March 31st!
March 10th, 2008 at 3:03 pm
I have to join in and say “Billy Batson and the Secret of Shazam” makes me nervous as a title. Does this mean the Shazam film is being pitched more at the junior audience as this is the implication.
(Don’t get me wrong, I am a complete Potter-phile, but I am protective of good ol’ Captain Marvel as I feel he’s had such a rough deal over the years.)
Keep the one word title. I love it. With clever marketing and a decent poster design, any potential confusion that this is the character’s name can be reduced.
March 26th, 2008 at 4:10 pm
“Billy Batson and the MAGIC of Shazam” is the title of a comic that will debut in July from DC. Artist Mike Kunkel is the talent behind the book. http://kunkelshazam.blogspot.com/
Developing a servicible title for a Captain Marvel series is a task that has dogged a number of creative talents.The last regular series was “The Power of Shazam!” possibilities mentioned in the last few years have included “Shazam!- Word of Power”
I had thought of “The Marvels of Shazam”, which I still feel handles the issue nicely, as “Captain Marvel” isn’t used. (Marvel Comics does not own the english word “Marvel”) Another option might be “The World’s Mightiest Mortal” (Cap’s perennial nickname).
But titles are of secondary importance to content. I’d like to take this opportunity to offer again the advice I would give to anyone involved in the production of a comic-book film : Trust the Material. Look to the most successful period of the character’s history and allow it to guide you. Simple logic suggests the elements for a sure-fire hit are there. Spider-Man, Batman, these undeniable hits took much of their tone (even whole sequences) directly from the pages of the comics.
Such films go wrong when filmakers forget they’re just playing with someone elses’ toys and should try to leave them in the condition they were found (Hulk, Superman Returns)
I have faith that John will find the correct balance of new and old, tweak only just enough to keep it all fresh and accessible to a modern audience. And most importantly,without losing the essential sense of fun that is the core of Captain Marvel.
And to whomever makes such decisions: Please don’t “improve” or “adjust” Captain Marvel’s costume. It’s perfect as is.
March 28th, 2008 at 4:17 am
Actually, the issue of who Shazam is can be dealt with in the advertising, to a great degree. A posible TV ad as example:
OPEN in the wizard’s chamber, flickering torches light the scene. The Bearded aincent looks slightly OC as he speaks.
CUT TO: BILLY. Track in as the young boy considers what he has heard. He looks up and into the camera.
A powerful crack of thunder peals, a shot of a lightning bolt flashes. The scene washes with gleaming light. As the light subsides we see a mighty figure, indistinct in the glare. Only certain elements are visible: A red costume, a white cape, and fleetingly, the image of a lightning bolt on the chest. Camera zooms into the figure and we go black.
TITLE: “Billy Batson and the Magic of SHAZAM”
Even the dullest moviegoer now knows the guy in the red suit is NOT Shazam, but they certainly want to know who he is.
That’s just my view, of course.
April 10th, 2008 at 7:49 pm
Good pitch Lon.
June 9th, 2008 at 2:13 pm
Extraordinary trailer Lon, I was thinking this could be a teaser for the movie.
June 9th, 2008 at 2:15 pm
Please Mr. August tell us. What it’s happening just right now whit this proyect? I appreciate so much. Regards from México.
June 23rd, 2008 at 8:48 am
Just wanted to take the opportunity to mention The recent successes of Iron Man, The Hulk, and Get Smart. All of which to all reports have “Trusted the material”. They have taken influence from the most successful period of the original property. Not neccessarily the initial stories, but the period at which the formula was perfected for that character.
With all my heart I hope this will be the direction “Billy Batson” goes.
July 5th, 2008 at 10:43 am
Just to Note: “Billy Batson” the comic did indeed hit the stands this week. It has an energetic,breezy feel and is clearly aimed at kids. But don’t dispair because there are fun things for the adult reader as well. It’s not quite the classic Captain Marvel of the Fawcett comics, and long time fans are already dividing over it. I personally have enjoyed what I’ve seen, and even though I’m sure John’s script provides us a slightly different Captain Marvel than Mike Kunkel does, I think this is going to be a popular book.