John August

Transcribed

Cork Grease

Episode - 629

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Scriptnotes, Three Page Challenge, Transcribed

John and Craig host another round of the Three Page Challenge, where they give their honest feedback on three listener-submitted scripts. They offer insights into using sound realistically, writing action that can be easily directed, finding subtext in dialogue, and navigating complex points of view.

But first, we dig into several tricky listener questions: How does a writing team discuss their individual work with their reps? When is it ok to say no to inclusive casting? And how do you break up with a producer?

In our bonus segment for premium members, we delve into tough questions and offer advice to our younger selves.

Links:

Email us at ask@johnaugust.com

You can download the episode here.

UPDATE 2-26-24: The transcript for this episode can be found here.

The Fandom Menace

Scriptnotes, Transcribed

John and Craig discuss the dynamics of fandom, attempting to chart how things get cool, then hot, then terrible. But how are fandoms organized? Where do subcultures start? And how should you engage with the community that forms around your work?

We also look at an alternative screenplay format from one of last year’s best screenplays, and follow up on bake-offs, distracting accuracies in fiction, and UK writing credits. We then answer questions on original songs, packaging your script, and what you can do when you suspect you’ve been ripped off.

In our bonus segment for premium members, John and Craig look at the many various fandoms and do their best to enrage them.

Links:

Email us at ask@johnaugust.com

You can download the episode here.

UPDATE 2-22-24: The transcript for this episode can be found here.

Unbelievably Agentic

HWTBAM, Scriptnotes, Transcribed

John welcomes back Aline Brosh McKenna to look at how both you and your characters can become more “agentic.” What are the traps and pitfalls of going after what you want? How do you get people to engage with your protagonist, especially when the protagonist is yourself?

Then it’s another round of How Would This be a Movie? We look at stories about a harm-reduction hotline, countertop cancer, loyalty testers and a mathematician who exploited the lottery.

In our bonus segment for premium members, John and Aline talk about their strange new reality of being empty nesters.

Links:

Email us at ask@johnaugust.com

You can download the episode here.

UPDATE 2-20-24: The transcript for this episode can be found here.

Realistic but Distracting

Scriptnotes, Transcribed

John and Craig investigate those details that are accurate and authentic, but can pull viewers out of the story. They look for ways to balance what is realistic with what is believable, and how to get rid of distractions and keep your audience focused on what matters.

We also discuss popular names, follow up on Icelandic pronunciations and the Mazinga toy, and answer listener questions on period details, defining biopics, writing during production, and whether or not to read the script before watching the movie.

In our bonus segment for premium members, John and Craig swallow their pride and ask, how can you tell when someone is just being nice?

Links:

Email us at ask@johnaugust.com

You can download the episode here.

UPDATE 2-5-24: The transcript for this episode can be found here.