John August

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VFX Deep Dive

Episode - 563

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Scriptnotes, Transcribed

John and Craig welcome VFX supervisor Alex Wang (The Last of Us) and VFX producer/writer Addie Manis (Foundation) to pull back the (green screen) curtain on the visual effects production process.

We ask the VFX experts to break down a sample scene, line by line to explain how they’d turn scene description into an actual scene. From their first read to the edit, they describe how the script guides the visual language for their projects.

In our bonus segment for premium members, John and Craig talk about friends, both how to make them and how to keep them.

Links:

* Follow along with the sample scene [here](https://johnaugust.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/sample-scene-for-VFX-discussion-2.pdf).
* Alex Wang on [IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1647984/)
* Addie Manis on [IMDb](https://www.imdb.com/name/nm1982088/) and [Twitter](https://twitter.com/adicaroy?lang=en)
* [The Perils of Audience Capture](https://gurwinder.substack.com/p/the-perils-of-audience-capture) by Gurwinder Bhogal
* [Craig’s Favorite Laser Pointer](https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09FH82ZJ9?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_product_details)
* [Get a Scriptnotes T-shirt!](https://cottonbureau.com/people/scriptnotes-podcast)
* [Check out the Inneresting Newsletter](https://inneresting.substack.com/)
* [Gift a Scriptnotes Subscription](https://scriptnotes.supportingcast.fm/gifts) or [treat yourself to a premium subscription!](https://scriptnotes.supportingcast.fm/)
* [Craig Mazin](https://twitter.com/clmazin) on Twitter
* [John August](https://twitter.com/johnaugust) on Twitter
* [John on Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/johnaugust/?hl=en)
* [Outro](http://johnaugust.com/2013/scriptnotes-the-outros) by Aguilera ([send us yours!](http://johnaugust.com/2014/outros-needed))
* Scriptnotes is produced by [Megana Rao](https://twitter.com/MeganaRao) and edited by [Matthew Chilelli](https://twitter.com/machelli).

Email us at ask@johnaugust.com

You can download the episode [here](http://traffic.libsyn.com/scriptnotes/563standard.mp3).

**UPDATE 8-30-22** The transcript for this episode can be found [here](https://johnaugust.com/2022/scriptnotes-episode-563-vfx-deep-dive-transcript).

Finish Line Blues

Scriptnotes

John and Craig discuss the confusing phenomenon of post-scriptum depression. They explain why even a good experience can feel like loss and offer tips for how to move on.

We also cover the difficulty of balancing timelines in parallel storylines. Follow up this week includes a fuller explanation of the Monty Hall and a passionate defense of short films.

In our bonus segment for premium members, we discuss our favorite party game: Codenames.

Links:

* [WGA Animation Pledge](https://www.wga.org/the-guild/going-guild/get-involved/animation)
* [Scriptnotes Seasons 9 & 10](https://store.johnaugust.com/), subscribe for all episodes and premium perks [here](https://scriptnotes.net/)
* [Download Highland 2 for free if you’re a university student!](https://quoteunquoteapps.com/highland-2/students.php)
* Article Option Services [The Optionist](https://theoptionist.substack.com/) and [Story Scout](https://www.storyscout.com/)
* Check out the Interesting Newsletter on [Shorts](https://inneresting.substack.com/)
* John’s short film [God](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2d314AWqNeM)
* [WGA Offers Trans Health Coverage](https://www.wga.org/news-events/news/connect/8-8-22/how-lgbtq-writers-helped-expand-transgender-health-benefits-for-guild-members)
* [The Rehearsal](https://www.hbo.com/the-rehearsal) Nathan Fielder’s new show on HBO Max
* [Kevin Wald’s Con Cryptics](https://www.ucaoimhu.com/concryptics.html) write in to ask@johnaugust.com if you can figure it out!
* [Codenames Game](https://www.target.com/p/codenames-board-game/-/A-50364627#lnk=sametab), [Codenames with Pictures](https://www.target.com/p/codenames-pictures-board-game/-/A-51511992), and more in the [Codenames Universe!](https://codenamesgame.com/)
* [Get a Scriptnotes T-shirt!](https://cottonbureau.com/people/scriptnotes-podcast)
* [Check out the Inneresting Newsletter](https://inneresting.substack.com/)
* [Gift a Scriptnotes Subscription](https://scriptnotes.supportingcast.fm/gifts) or [treat yourself to a premium subscription!](https://scriptnotes.supportingcast.fm/)
* [Craig Mazin](https://twitter.com/clmazin) on Twitter
* [John August](https://twitter.com/johnaugust) on Twitter
* [John on Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/johnaugust/?hl=en)
* [Outro](http://johnaugust.com/2013/scriptnotes-the-outros) by Adam Pineless ([send us yours!](http://johnaugust.com/2014/outros-needed))
* Scriptnotes is produced by [Megana Rao](https://twitter.com/MeganaRao) and edited by [Matthew Chilelli](https://twitter.com/machelli).

Email us at ask@johnaugust.com

You can download the episode [here](http://traffic.libsyn.com/scriptnotes/562standard.mp3).

**UPDATE 8-23-22** The transcript for this episode can now be found [here](https://johnaugust.com/2022/scriptnotes-episode-562-finish-line-blues-transcript).

The Free Stuff

Apps, Bronson, Highland, Meta, News, Software, Tools, Weekend Read, Writer Emergency Pack

My friend Nima recently pointed out that most of the stuff our company makes is free.

That’s probably not a great business model, but it’s always been our culture. We only charge for those things that have significant ongoing costs — like upkeep and hosting — or a per-unit cost to produce.

If you’re a writer, here are the things we offer at absolutely no cost. As in free.

### [johnaugust.com](https://johnaugust.com)
This blog has been running since 2003. Nearly all of its 1,500 posts are screenwriting advice. The Explore tab on the right is a good way to get started looking through the archives. For example, you might start with the [129 articles on formatting](https://johnaugust.com/qanda/formatting).

### [Scriptnotes](https://johnaugust.com/scriptnotes)
Craig Mazin and I have been recording this [weekly screenwriting podcast](https://johnaugust.com/scriptnotes) for over ten years. It’s always been free, with no ads whatsoever. The most recent 20 episodes are available in every podcast player. Back episodes are available to [Scriptnotes Premium](http://scriptnotes.net) members, or can be purchased in 50-episode “seasons.”

### [Inneresting](https://inneresting.substack.com)
Chris Csont edits this [weekly newsletter](https://inneresting.substack.com), which serves as a good companion to Scriptnotes. Every Friday, it has links to things about writing, centering on a given theme. It’s a Substack, but completely free.

### [Highland 2](https://quoteunquoteapps.com/highland-2/)
For years, I’ve written all my scripts and novels in this terrific app our company makes. It’s a free download on the [Mac App Store](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/highland-2/id1171820258?mt=12). The Standard edition is fully functional, with no time limits. Students can receive the enhanced Pro edition through our [student license program](https://quoteunquoteapps.com/highland-2/students.php).

### [Courier Prime](https://quoteunquoteapps.com/courierprime)
English-language screenplays are written in Courier, but not all Couriers are alike. Many are too thin, and the italics are ugly. So we commissioned a new typeface called [Courier Prime](https://quoteunquoteapps.com/courierprime). It’s Courier, but better. Since it’s free and open licensed, you can use it through Google Fonts and similar services.

### [Weekend Read](https://quoteunquoteapps.com/weekendread)
Reading a screenplay on an iPhone is a pain in the ass — unless you use [Weekend Read](https://quoteunquoteapps.com/weekendread). It melts down screenplay PDFs so they format properly on smaller screens. Weekend Read also has an extensive library of older scripts, including many award nominees. It’s free on the App Store.

### [The Library](http://johnaugust.com)
The [Library](http://johnaugust.com) has most of the scripts I’ve written, and hosts a few other writers’ work as well. For several projects, I’ve included treatments, pitches, outlines and additional material.

### [Screenwriting.io](screenwriting.io)
While johnaugust.com offers detailed articles on various topics, screenwriting.io answers [really basic questions about film and TV writing](screenwriting.io). If you’re Googling, “how many acts does a TV show have?” we want to [give you the answer](https://screenwriting.io/how-many-acts-does-a-tv-show-have/) with no cruft or bullshit.

### [100 Most Frequently Asked Questions about Screenwriting](https://gallery.mailchimp.com/2b0232538adf13e5b3e55b12f/files/100_FAQ_About_Screenwriting.v1.2.pdf)
We gathered the 100 most frequently searched-for entries on screenwriting.io in this handy [85-page PDF](https://gallery.mailchimp.com/2b0232538adf13e5b3e55b12f/files/100_FAQ_About_Screenwriting.v1.2.pdf).

### [Launch](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/launch/id1319436103)
I recorded this seven-episode podcast series about the pitch, sale, writing and production of my first Arlo Finch book. If you’ve ever thought about writing a book, you’ll want to check it out. Free [wherever you listen to podcasts](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/launch/id1319436103).

# The Paid Stuff

Given all the free stuff we put out, how does our company make money? We sell things.

### [Highland 2 Pro](https://quoteunquoteapps.com/highland-2/)
Highland 2 Standard Edition is free, but most users choose to upgrade to Pro for its added features: revision mode, priority email support, extra templates, custom themes, and watermark-free PDFs. It’s an in-app purchase, $39 USD. ((Prices may change. Also note that Apple sets international pricing, so some apps cost a little more or a little less in some countries.))

### [Writer Emergency Pack](http://writeremergency.com)
Writer Emergency Pack began its life as a Kickstarter, and is now one of the most popular gifts for writers of all ages. Available through [our store](https://quoteunquoteapps.com/weekendread) and [Amazon](https://amzn.to/3Afgahb).

### [Bronson Watermarker PDF](https://quoteunquoteapps.com/bronson/)
Bronson is the app I needed when watermarking scripts for a Broadway reading. Now it’s become the default watermarking app in Hollywood. It’s $20 on the [Mac App Store](https://apps.apple.com/us/app/bronson-watermarker-pdf/id881629098?mt=12).

### [T-shirts and hoodies](https://cottonbureau.com/people/john-august-1)
We used to print and ship our own t-shirts, but we now sell them through Cotton Bureau. We put out a new [Scriptnotes shirt](https://cottonbureau.com/search?query=scriptnotes) every year. It’s definitely not a profit center, but it’s fun seeing merch out in the wild.

### [Weekend Read Unlocked](https://quoteunquoteapps.com/weekendread)
Users can unlock their expanded library for $10 USD.

### [Scriptnotes Premium](http://scriptnotes.net)
The Scriptnotes podcast runs out of a separate LLC from our software business. Premium subscriptions pay for the salaries of our producer, editor and transcriptionist, along with hosting and management fees. Craig and I don’t make a cent off it.

Why Now?

Scriptnotes, Transcribed

John and Craig tackle the third question every development executive asks: “why now?” What makes an idea relevant to the moment? They offer ways writers can think about this early on in their process, including reframing it as “how now?” instead.

We then talk about reversals and look at how they work on the page, using a scene from Chernobyl. This week’s follow up includes discussions on abortion access, post-release editing, and the impact of cancelling an almost-finished movie.

In our bonus segment for premium members, the guys debate when to engage with stupid people and when it’s best to ignore them.

Links:

* Lots of exciting updates for premium members coming up, [sign up for a membership here!](https://scriptnotes.net/)
* [WGA Health Plan covers travel for abortion-related expenses](https://www.wgaplans.org/info/health/forms/TravelExpensesNotification.pdf)
* [More Than 400 TV Showrunners Demand Netflix, Disney and More Offer Safety Protocols in Anti-Abortion States](https://variety.com/2022/tv/news/tv-writers-demand-safety-protocols-abortion-bans-1235327815/)
* [Batgirl Shelved](https://deadline.com/2022/08/warner-bros-batgirl-1235083809/)
* [Netflix Retroactively Editing Stranger Things](https://www.gq-magazine.co.uk/culture/article/stranger-things-netflix-retroactively-editing)
* [The Falconer](http://www.thefalconerfilm.com/) by Annie Kaempfer, [watch here!](https://www.amazon.com/Falconer-Rodney-Stotts/dp/B09RTSQSND/)
* Follow along with this discussion on reversals – [Chernobyl scene here](https://johnaugust.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/CHERNOBYL_561_Reversals_Scene.pdf), full script [here](https://johnaugust.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Chernobyl_Episode-3Open-Wide-O-Earth.pdf).
* [Antlers Do What No Other Bones Can](https://www.theatlantic.com/science/archive/2022/08/deer-elk-shed-antlers-hunting/671021/) by Katherine J. Wu for The Atlantic
* [House of DaVinci 3](https://www.bluebraingames.com/the-house-of-da-vinci-3) video game
* [Get a Scriptnotes T-shirt!](https://cottonbureau.com/people/scriptnotes-podcast)
* [Check out the Inneresting Newsletter](https://inneresting.substack.com/)
* [Gift a Scriptnotes Subscription](https://scriptnotes.supportingcast.fm/gifts) or [treat yourself to a premium subscription!](https://scriptnotes.supportingcast.fm/)
* [Craig Mazin](https://twitter.com/clmazin) on Twitter
* [John August](https://twitter.com/johnaugust) on Twitter
* [John on Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/johnaugust/?hl=en)
* [Outro](http://johnaugust.com/2013/scriptnotes-the-outros) by Nico Mansy ([send us yours!](http://johnaugust.com/2014/outros-needed))
* Scriptnotes is produced by [Megana Rao](https://twitter.com/MeganaRao) and edited by [Matthew Chilelli](https://twitter.com/machelli).

Email us at ask@johnaugust.com

You can download the episode [here](http://traffic.libsyn.com/scriptnotes/561standard.mp3).

**UPDATE 8-15-22** The transcript for this episode can be found [here](https://johnaugust.com/2022/scriptnotes-episode-562-why-now-transcript).