Tag: Films

Doubt – Truth vs Conscience

The movie Doubt, written and directed by John Patrick Shanley, has an emotional disconnect at its core– in the most unsuccessful sense of the word

Milk – Lack of Internal Conflict

Milk features standout performances and worthy subject matter of real historical significance. The film, however, is severely lacking in story on several accounts. Too much backstory compromises the emotional power of the film.

Stick To It – Reward Yourself

Nick Schenk scored big with Gran Torino after over ten years of struggle, rejection and near-misses. How does someone– anyone– keep motivated in the face of impossible odds, daunting circumstances and a crushing lack of validation. Here’s how.

The Wrestler – Power of Idealism

Randy’s tragedy is he finds magic only in the empty choreographed illusions of the ring. He compulsively plays the spray-tanned bleached blond hero to dwindling numbers of cheering strangers.

Live, Love and Write – Happy New Year

As we look forward to the tremendous shifts and changes this coming year will bring in technology, finance, entertainment and politics let us fully and completely embrace the indomitable and unconquerable force of love in our work.

Writing Routine

I discovered a great website that discusses how various writers and artists approach their work and organize their day. Below is a discussion of the simple method Anthony Trollope used to write forty-nine novels in thirty-five years!

Subtext – Unspoken Communication

The subtext of a scene is the underlying emotion that changes or alters the meaning of the words spoken or the actions taken. Or it is what is “under the skin of a character.” Or it is what is under the surface of what a character says or does.