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Sunday, November 13, 2011

Where I Moved Platforms



I decided to use wordpress from now on, so if you want to continue on following... you know where to find me =).



Eva said


See ya there!

Thursday, November 10, 2011

Where I Talk About Sucking it up and Letting Someone See My Work


Screenplay Reading - Nov 2009 #5
Photo: Matthew Newton/NH Film Office
"Those who dare to fail miserably can achieve greatly." ~ Robert F. Kennedy


Our passion for writing might be seen by the amount of research we do or the many courses we take to hone our writing skills. We make sure we get better and dedicate an amount of hours to writing. We see ourselves as writers and we write quite a few scripts or manuscripts --- to the point were we are extremely proud of them. Hey, it took determination to do all that work!

But there is one thing...

Deep within us lives a thing call uncertainty. The one that stops us from submitting our work or sharing it among our friends and families. We tend to begin having doubts about how it's not good enough or how there's room to make it better. And yes, that may be true. But we won't know until someone else reads it. In fact, they might see something we missed.

Personally, I want the right people to see my work and one day hire me to write a script for them. Or so that's what I hope for. Yet I haven't really submitted anything anywhere. How is my talent to shine when I myself haven't done anything about it?

Isn't that like contradicting myself?

Which is why I came to the conclusion that I need to push my doubts and uncertainties aside and suck it up. Yes, I will be rejected (that's a giving!) but at least I'm putting myself out there. And one good way to do this is by entering writing contests.

The price money would be nice, but I want feedback. I want the feedback from those that are already in the industry. Whether I taught myself the writing skills or went to school to learn them doesn't matter. What's important is what we do with them.

I know I'm not going to win right away, but at least I have taken a small step. I have decided to make it a goal of mine to show my potential to those that read my material.

My work will be criticize and tossed to the side but it will be okay.

So to all you writers out there, take a deep breath, detach yourself from your story, and let someone read it.

Let that be your and my first step to greater things.

Monday, October 31, 2011

My Thoughts on the Inciting Incident

All rights go to its rightful owner

"A journey of a thousand miles must begin with a single step." ~ Chinese Proverb


While I was in the writing program, I had the opportunity to read Syd Field's The Foundation of Screenplays. That book made quite a lot of sense to me but it doesn't "click" until one puts it into action.

Take the inciting incident. Why exactly is it important?

I know I asked that question when I read the book the first time and even did my research to get the opinions of other writers. But after I started noticing it in other scripts (and my own) I knew why. Sure, my way of describing the inciting incident might not be as lengthy, but I think it makes sense.

The best way to describe the inciting incident is by comparing it to a domino effect. Before the dominos begin to fall something has to hit the first domino. It's that first incident that sets the story into motion.

For example:

If my story is about a guy who gets into this one unexpected adventure after he gets to prison, I need to figure out what made him land in prison in the first place. And that's the inciting incident. 

It doesn't have to be a big event, it has to be that one thing that changes my protagonist life (for better or worse).


As writers we learn from trial and error.

But we also have to help each other out. Which is why I wanted to write about the inciting incident. It may not sound as much, but it will make the story flow like it should.

Oh, and if you haven't read any of Syd Field's books you should. But that's a personal recommendation.

Till next time,

Eva





Sunday, October 23, 2011

Where I Practice with Scene Headings


FADE IN:

EXT. OUTDOOR MALL - AFTERNOON

The RAIN has caught some SHOPPERS off guard; others pull their umbrellas out. One YOUNG WOMAN is not even aware of it. All she is doing is walking with no real direction. Her name is CHLOE, 30, pretty and a sweetheart, someone that goes by self-help books.

We FOLLOW Chloe until she stops in front of a jewelry store. Her hand covers the ring on the window with great emotion.

CHLOE (V.O.)
Michael!
She closes her eyes.

FLASHBACK - EXT. NAVAL BASE - MORNING

MICHAEL, 23, attractive and caring, someone that gives his all to his partner turns and sees Chloe running towards him, ready to leap. He places his bag on the ground and catches her.
MICHAEL
God, Chloe. I missed you.
Chloe giggles as she is being twirl.
MICHAEL (CONT’D)
I’m sorry it took longer than expected.
CHLOE
No, it’s fine. You’re here now. That’s all that matters.

Michael puts her down and passionately kisses her.

EXT. OUTDOOR MALL - AFTERNOON (BACK TO PRESENT)

Through the reflection from the window WE SEE Chloe’s tears.

FADE OUT:

So what do you think happened?

Scene headings have always been a bit challenging for me, so with practice, it will get there. Any feedback is always welcome.

Yes, there's more to this short scene. Let me know if you want the rest.


Till next time,

Eva

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Where I Come to Realize



Credit to creator
" The human mind always makes progress, 
but it is a progress in spirals." ~Germaine De Stael


A few weeks ago I was fortunate to land a job, which means I can pay my bills and go on with my life. And no, it's not a writing job...

Now lately I've been neglecting my writing (I've been trying to get the hang of things at work), but today there was this small incident that made me realize how much I want to write for a living.

And this is when I came to realize that I need to push myself more.

After all, I believe everything that happens to us can helps us achieve our ultimate goal, whatever that might be. So during lunchtime I decided to start working on a few loglines for a contest I've been contemplating on.

The way I see it is, we as people tend to become comfortable doing or being in a particular spot that we tend to forget what we really are after. Which is why being reminded  is always a good thing.

So remember that.

Till next time,

Eva


Monday, October 3, 2011

Where She Revisits an Old Tale

"Learn as though you would never be able to master it; 
hold it as though you would be in fear of losing it."~ Confucius

Now that I have quite an amount of time to spare, I have decided to go back to the basics. As I've mentioned before, the script I created for school will be rewritten from scratch and be told by another character. I believe it will work better that way, but before I do such a thing there is something I want to revisit...

The Hero with a Thousand Faces is the book that takes the protagonist piece by piece. It's a book that lets us understand the hero. Quite frankly I need to reread it. I need to understand the hero and study it. Just because I finished school doesn't mean I stop learning.

In a way it has become a goal of mine as a writer and student.

Till next time,

Eva

Wednesday, September 21, 2011

Where I Tried to Write a One Panel Comic Scene

I love to read graphic novels and mangas but I just can't draw. Even if my life dependent on it (isn't that just sad!).  But I came up with this one panel scene, even though writing comics is new to me, and if I knew how to draw I would've sketched it.

Enjoy! And if you think you can draw it, I would love to see it.




PAGE ONE (ONE PANEL)
A black and white splash. We see a park. We can tell it’s fall by the way the leafs are falling down due to the breeze. There’s a bench in the middle. BRENT, a bum, is laying down on it facing the sky. A newspaper is on his chest, but he’s sleeping.

SFX:
Swoosh!

1 CAP:
It’s not that I am a bum. The economy is just not helping me find a job.



~*~*



Till next time,

Eva


Monday, September 19, 2011

A Day when my Imagination wouldn't Stop

"Listen to the voices." ~William Faulkner

Today was a day when my imagination was running wild. A few months I got an idea for a new script but because I was busy working on my thesis script, I actually placed it aside. I did write the idea down though. However, the more I neglect this new story, the more it comes to torment me (in a good way). Sure, call me crazy. I am after all a writer.

If that's not enough, now that I have finally finished writing my thesis script, I am actually going to rewrite it. From another character's point of view that is. Isn't that the whole point of rewriting anyways?

After all, a script is not perfect-- it's a work in progress.

Besides, I feel that it will be better that way anyways. Call it a gut feeling. So now I have two different stories in my hands and it will go something like this: While I wait for my-now-protagonist to speak to me and tell me how the story should go, I will begin the research phase on my other story and this includes coming up with the bios.

I think I will be able to manage it, and now that I will be officially done with school I will have time to write and create.

Don't you just love inspiration?

Till next time,

Eva

Thursday, September 15, 2011

When She Realizes that Changes are Coming

"All changes, even the most longed for,have their melancholy; 
for what we leave behind us is a part of ourselves; we must die
 to one life before we can enter into another!" ~Anatole France

As I'm listening to Pandora I'm trying to see how to begin today's post. The music is catchy though, makes me think of those days when swing was in. So, I shall start with something like this...

Today I realized that it's not just me anymore. M (my boyfriend) and I have been dating for a few months. It is officially a serious relationship. Well, at least in my book. You see, I am a little afraid of being serious with someone. I've always had.

The many responsibilities that come with it. The fact that it's not just my choice anymore. Whatever I do will and does affect him. Meaning my actions, which bring consequences, are his in some odd way.

Relationships are complex.

Now how I came to realize this was rather simple. I asked M if he could do me a favor, and he told me that he would gladly do it, but we need it to discuss it. It is kind of a big deal so it makes sense, but you see, when I heard his response I didn't know how to react.

Usually if someone can or can't do a favor they will tell you. But nobody has told me, "I would gladly do it. We just need to discuss this. Is it alright?"

Yes, it took me awhile to process it. Fine, a few hours. Almost the entire afternoon. And this here is when I realized it's not just me anymore.

It's unknown territory for me. I've been running away from such a thing that now it's new and it brings mix feelings.

Sure, I might be leaving a part of me (the one that used to make choices that affected just her) but I'm obtaining a part of him.

It's new. I need to adjust. I'll be okay.

Till next time,

Eva

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

FADE IN:

INT. SAM’S STUDIO APARTMENT - NIGHT

SAM, attractive and a aspiring writer, sits on the floor, her head resting on the wall. A bottle of wine and a cigarette box are her companions--both empty.
SAME (V.O.)
I believe that there’s a moment in everyone’s life were they have reached their limits.
 I think, I had just reached mines.
A SIGH escapes her. 



I like Lily Allen's music and as I was listening to "Who'd Have Known," this scene came to me. I appreciate feedback!

Till next time,

Eva

Thursday, September 8, 2011

Where She Continues on Hunting

"The feature belongs to those who believe in the beauty 
of their dreams." ~Eleanor Roosevelt

I had an interview earlier this week, which felt good indeed, but it wasn't what I had expected. It was researching over the phone. Yeah, I wouldn't have mind it, if it was research using different means, but as I was sitting there, observing (part of the interview was to observe and see if it was right for me), it just didn't feel right.

I want to be able to use my talents and be happy doing my work. It's not that I'm picky. Believe me I'm not. I just need to keep on looking. I know I'm going to find something. I know so.

I can only look forward.

Till next time,

Eva

Friday, September 2, 2011

The Road of Uncertainty

"There is really nothing more to say--except why. But since why is difficult to handle, 
one must take refuge in how."~ Toni Morrison

Ah, yes. It will be almost a month now since I've started looking for a new job. Yes, I've had the few opportunities to meet for an interview, but that's as far as I've gotten. Yet, I know I'm not the only one. There are many of us who are looking for a new job. A new opportunity. I hope mine comes soon.

Hey, I need to stay optimistic.

I will say, it's been hard to not go crazy or depressed. Especially when I start thinking about why it is that I still don't have anything--when I start questioning everything.

If I could, I think I would've already pulled my hair out, out of mere frustration of course. Yet when I start reflecting, I can't help but put a smile on my face. I have a family that supports me and encourages me. I have friends that always try to remind me of how smart and talented I am--maybe they are just being sweet but I am grateful--and I have a boyfriend that does all of the things I've mentioned and more.

Earlier today I told him just how happy I was for being with him, and truth be told, if I wasn't with him and going out, even if it's just for dinner, I would've gone crazy or depressed by now. Hmmm... I don't think either one is good.

Yes, my world is full of uncertainties, and even my writing has been affected by the event, but I believe that somewhere down the road it will get better. I need to believe and think positive. Maybe this is one of the many lessons in life we have to learn from. Maybe.

Now I am aware I'm not the only one who feels this way; at least I hope so. Yes, it's tough. Frustrating. Meaningless even, but we must remember things happen in life (all the time!) and we must stay strong. Maybe this road of uncertainty will soon make sense to me and to you.

Till next time,

Eva

Monday, August 29, 2011

It was Harder than I Thought

"That priceless galaxy of misinformation called the mind..."
~ Djuna Barnes

For one of my very last assignments, I was suppose to write my very first pitch.  I read the material (all of it!) and browsed online to get a better idea. Mind you, I really thought  it wasn't going to be hard at all when I first read about the assignment.

But once I was sitting, staring at the white word doc, I had nothing. I didn't know how to begin or what to write! My mind was empty. I'll be sincere, I started to panic. This is material I should be able to pitch to that one person who wants to hear about my story, and I couldn't write anything down.

I wrote my story. I know how it begins and ends. This story has been part of my life for the past year, and I couldn't write a pitch. One thing was certain, I couldn't give up. So I did what anyone else would do.

I procrastinated.

Yes, I played SIMS on Facebook (addicting so don't play it!) and texted my boyfriend while chatting with my sister who was in school. Anything to avoid the frustration I was feeling. That is, until I came back to my senses and said, "Eva, get your butt back on track and write that pitch! Shame on you."

And I did. I started to write my pitch as I listened to one particular song that I believe fits well with my story. And wouldn't you know it? It worked. I was able to complete my first pitch. Yeah, it took me a few hours (okay, most of the day), but I did it.  I felt accomplished. I was finally able to get back on track, and I now know I need to practice writing pitches.

Because it turns out that writing a pitch is harder than I thought.

Till next time,

Eva

Friday, August 26, 2011

Just Because the Pearl is Small it doesn't Mean it has No Value

"And the trouble is, if you don't risk anything, 
you risk even more." ~Erica Jong


A few weeks ago, I was finished with a job contract as a Quality Assurance Specialist (QA). You know, the one that edits, researches, writes, and goes over the surveys that are done by mystery shoppers. I did enjoy the position, but they couldn't keep me.  So now, here I am looking for a new job and it's hard.

Well, with the way the economy is at the moment, that's no surprise.

Now on the upside, I have been able to land a few interviews. Usually, I have the skills they need (you know, the writing, editing, researching, and marketing techniques). Unfortunately, I don't have the experience they desire.

I understand that when a company is hiring, they want someone with the experience--even though they say education matters too--but don't consider those that don't have it. Unless there's an extreme need. Now, I'm not saying this is always true because it's not.

Now my question is, how are we suppose to acquire the experience the companies need, if no one is willing to take a gamble on us "inexperience" job seekers?

Ah, yes. No one ever said finding a job was easy, but I do hope someone will be willing to take a gamble on me.

To all my fellow job seekers out there, good luck! And remember, don't give up.




Till next time.

Monday, August 22, 2011

When One Journey Ends a New One Begins

"It is only in adventure that some people succeed in knowing 
themselves--in finding themselves." ~Andre Gide


It's been a while since I las blogged. A very long while indeed. There's a lot I need to write about, but we all know that might not happen. So, why not move on, right?

I will finish with my M.F.A in Creative Writing from Full Sail University next month, and that means that I have officially completed my first full-lenght movie script. It was an interesting journey. I had the opportunity to master Final Draft, experiment with Toon Boom Storyboard Pro, and become familiar with Timeline 3D. All of these are great programs, and yes, I now see the benefits of using them for writing purposes.

I was able to experience my own writing adventure. I was able to feel the ups and downs of creating characters, a story, and doing the research. I went through a rewriting process and received useful feedback from peers and instructors. My pride was also swallow somewhere along the way.

And now, after so many doubts and fears, I am ready.

Now, I'm ready to create more scripts and go as far as I can.


Eva

Tuesday, April 19, 2011

My Girlfriend's a Geek v1.0



This blog is a record of battle as dictated by a man with a fujoshi girlfriend.
Okay, that was a lie. I’m not fighting at all.
The war is purely one-sided. Each day I am dragged further and further into the world of otaku.
I cannot be held responsible for any damages incurred by reading this blog
and falling into the same predicament.
There is much otaku talk contained within, so please follow your directions carefully, and do not exceed your recommended dosage.







Story


My Girlfriend's a Geek or as I like to call it for short, MGG, is as mentioned in the above synopsis, a blog created by Pentabu. Right from the very first page Pentabu caught my attention and made me laugh like no tomorrow. 


Is there really a plot? 


Well no. This is Pentabu's blog about his experience with his girlfriend Y-ko. Nothing more. The reason it is a novel is because his blog became very popular years ago when it was online, but what's important is that it can relate to many readers that know a fujoshi, is a fujoshi, or dates a fujoshi. This is what makes this novel amusing, because we then know where Pentabu is coming from. 


The one thing about this novel that might lose your interest, or make it one of those novel you just wouldn't even read, is if you wouldn't know or are aware of the term fujoshi. 


Something special about this novel is the format as you will be able to see from my copy:






Notice how its written similar to maybe a stage play format, and in the left-bottom corner we see a small manga strip, adding humor to the event.








Characters


Pentabu


The protagonist and storyteller of the novel. The one that  had his life changed as soon as he started to date Y-ko. The timid one that can't say "no" to the girlfriend and is walked all over by her. He is a passive character, making me feel bad for him at times really. But interesting enough, he has an open mind and because he loves Y-ko is able to at least tolerate some of her antics.


Y-ko


 The fujoshi woman that cosplays and has plenty of fujoshi friends. She is bossy towards Pentabu, but has a kind heart, in a way. Because of her hobby, Pentabu created a blog, and quite frankly it seems it didn't matter to her, but I might be wrong, so don't quote me on that. She is a very entertaining person to read about it.




Review


If you want a good laugh, especially if you know what a fujoshi is, then you should purchase the novel because from beginning to end you will laugh. As I said before, this novel was based on a blog, so it uses a lot of the reader's imagination, but its worth it. So please support Pentabu, Y-ko, and Yen Press by purchasing this book.







Thursday, April 14, 2011

Somewhat of a Manga Haul

So school has been keeping me busy with focusing on Act II, which I hope for the best. Who would've thought that Act II is the type of 60 pages one dreads...

They are intimidating actually, but when isn't it? A writer, whether published or not must tackled obstacle to be able to improve. Those challenges only make us stronger, so that's something I tried reminding myself. But enough about that.

I wanted to share with you all what mangas I'll be writing about for the upcoming weeks. In fact I've just received some of these (I buy online :) ), while some I haven't been able to write about at all.

So let's begin:


My Girlfriend's a Geek by Pentabu
I bought the novel before the manga and I came to love the series. The novel is actually the blog Pentabu wrote about his adventure with his geeky girlfriend and its one of those that make you laugh-out-loud. The manga is just the novel with pretty illustrations. So I can't wait to share these!


Death Note v. 2 and Pandora Hearts v. 3
I've been itching to opened them up and read! L is in the cover for volume 2 so that makes me happy. Now for those that don't know, I actually watched the Death Note anime before reading the manga, but I like the manga more actually.  As for Pandora Hearts, I've been avoiding the anime until I catch up on the English manga releases actually, but its been tempting, so  I can't wait!

Bunny Drop by Yumi Unita
I felt in love with volume 1 and instantly purchased volume 2. Yeah, I've flipped through the book but haven't sat down to read. I love the pink cover though, a soft pastel. I think it fits nicely really. And Rin looks so pretty here. I really can't wait to read this too! 

I also have a list of mangas I also want to read and I'm always looking for new ones. I'm really open minded when it comes to them. Just give me a story with a plot, character development, and pretty illustrations and I might consider them.

Till next time!

Sunday, April 10, 2011

Pandora Hearts v.2

              

Oz Vessalius may have survived his stint in the Abyss, but he is no closer to discovering the truth behind the “sin” for which he was condemned. On the advice of a mysterious man who appeared to him when Alice regained the first of her memories, Oz, along with Alice and Pandora’s Raven, embarks on a mission to investigate the site of his disastrous coming-of-age ceremony in search of answers. However, what begins as a simple investigation becomes the revelation of a harsher reality, which comes swooping down on Oz as the hands of the clock continue ticking away mercilessly…


Volume two brought many unexpected surprises and answered quite a  few questions that we, as readers, might have had after volume one.Of course Mochizuki-sensei made the use of backstories for these:


Friendship between Oz and Gilbert 
Going back to volume one, we saw Oz and Gilbert to be friends, and we had an idea that they were close, but volume two explained the type of friendship they had, which was summarized by a phrase Gilbert said, "we are linked by our shadows, not by our light."  This friendship is powerful and it might be one that cannot be broken. Now we can understand why it is that Gilbert tolerates everything Oz does, and yet we know, that Oz truly cares for Gilbert. It was extremely touching. And I can't wait to see more of this friendship.


Relationship with dad
Oz relationship with dad  is not only mysterious but full of regrets. Oz regrets not asking his father why he was hated so much by him, but never got to it. So now that he is on a journey regarding the Abyss, he doesn't want to not regret anything. It might have been just miscommunication between father and son, a probability, but we won't be able to know till the next volume. ( Well, I hope so!)


Alice's memory
We were finally able to have a snippet of Alice's memory in volume two. And if many of you remember volume one, there was someone in the shadows when Oz met Alice for the first time, that said person was in her memories too! He is linked to her memories disappearing, and I want to know how they are all chained together. Yes, Alice looked so innocent and happy in her past, and I started to wonder, what happened that made her not only a chain, but a brat. But don't worry, I still think she rocks!


Volume two  explains so much to us.


For example we find out what the Incuse is and how it works.  Why Oz is very important, for he is the key to the Abyss. The Baskervilles are tie into this (the guys that sent Oz to the Abyss). There is also the connection between Raven and Gilbert, so when I first read about it I was stunt! I wasn't expecting it, and I congratulate Mochizuki-sensei for making me go agape about it.


Review
Pandora Hearts volume 2 is amazing! And as you can see through my breakdown, there is so much detail giving to us by Mochizuki-sensei to the point where it wasn't overwhelming. It all flowed nicely and at a constant pace. The art continues to be beautiful yet dark. But what I loved the most is that, even though this manga has so much darkness and sadness, Jun Mochizuki gave us pinches of comedy, creating a balance to the story. 


This continuation is a great story to a wonderful series. So please support Jun Mochizuki and purchase her manga!

Saturday, April 2, 2011

Pandora Hearts v.1

By: Jun Mochizuki
Publisher: Yen Press







The air of celebration surrounding fifteen-year-old Oz Vessalius’s coming-of-age ceremony quickly turns to horror when he is condemned for a sin about which he knows nothing. He is thrown into an eternal, inescapable prison known as the Abyss from which there is no escape. There, he meets a young girl named Alice, who is not what she seems. Now that the relentless cogs of fate have begun to turn, do they lead only to crushing despair for Oz, or is there some shred of hope for him to grasp on to?








Story

Pandora Hearts is the dark-theme version of Alice in Wonderland that  keeps us turning the page.  The pace of the story is easy to follo, and nothing is what it seems, which is a  plus for some of us.  Jun Mochizuki did not rushed her story, which is why we have so much detail and symbolism, and we have a great cast that balances each other out. But what I liked the most is that even though this is somewhat of a serious story,  we still find scenes that make us laugh; giving a balance between horror and comedy.

Characters

Oz  Vessalius

He's the protagonist of the series with a very care-free attitude that cherishes the relationship with his younger sister, Ada, and his best friend, Gilbert. He is caring and lonely ( of course he won't admit it) and doesn't really have a relationship with his dad. In fact his dad is a mystery. But most importantly, he becomes Alice's contractor. For someone that has gone through a lot in his past, he knows how to not make others worry, making us, the reader, come to like him, and think as to why someone like him would have to go through so much.

Alice a.k.a B-rabbit

She's a pretty awesome character. She's cynical, crazy, powerful, and out for revenge, since she's been in the Abyss for quite sometime. But underneath all that though, we come to see that she really is nice and caring, and would like to know more about her past. Now what caught my attention about this particular Alice is that she doesn't let others rule over her.

Gilbert

In a way I feel bad for him because he gets picked on and pranked on by none other than Oz, his friend and master.  There is more to Gilbert's past, but we are not informed in this volume. Oh, and he dislikes cat.

Lady Sharon

When she is first introduced Oz gets all fluster and finds her to be the most attractive young lady. Not only does she come from a wealthy family, and looks like such a nice and polite young lady, but carries as secret, which we don't know till almost at the end of the volume. 

Xerxes Break

To me he seems more like Lady Sharon's shadow with a sarcastic attitude that carries a talking doll name Emily.. Yet I can't help but think that he has a secret agenda.  But what would that be?

Baskerville Race

They are the ones that cause Oz  adventure. Whatever it is that they were trying to accomplished sure didn't go as planned. 

Final Thoughts

Maybe this one story might have quite an amount of characters that seems to be a very important part of the plot, so what I'm hoping for is for Jun Mochizuki to not lose track of what she wants to tell us; without dropping important characters and adding additional characters that might be no real use for.  As well as following her plot.

But most importantly, this is definitely a series to look into, if you are looking for something with a hint of horror and comedy, in a twisted world.












Sunday, March 27, 2011

About Finishing Act I and Creating a Great Screenplay

I had a crazy adventure this month with my working on Act I.  I will admit it was a bit frightening staring at a blank page for what seemed like hours with my: trying to figure out what should come first, whether I needed to begin my story with Voice Over (V.O) or a flashback.

Yes, they might be minor things to worry about, but at the beginning of the month they were very important to me, and made me feel like I was a complete and total wreck!

This is when I started to remember how many had recommended writing warm-ups before focusing on any project. Yeah, I've done warm-ups before but not on a daily basis. So what I ended up doing was used these warm-ups as a daily road map, to help me get to my goal, which of course I would come up with as I wrote for ten minutes.

Once Act I was completed, I couldn't help but feel proud of myself for I had accomplished something very important.

On Monday we will begin writing Act II and I'm really anxious. Everyone knows Act II is what keeps and truly makes the story.

A great screenplay has a great beginning. An AWESOME middle. And a memorable ending.

In fact as I'm writing this, my heart is raising. I'm nervous, excited, and ready for this new challenge.


Till Next Time

Sunday, March 13, 2011

Want to Donate?

Hello everyone. Because of the situation that is taking place in Japan at the moment I have decided to share some links (among other things) where you can donate, if you haven't done so.

Links:

Japan Earthquake Donation Fund

The American Humane Association

The American National Red Cross

Americares

Australian Red Cross

British Red Cross

Canadian Red Cross

Charity Navigator

Convoy of Hope

Doctors without Borders

FirstGiving

International Medical Corps

International Rescue Committee

Japan Society of New York




Twitter

@BING

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1,000 Cranes for Tsunami Relief

Via Texting


American Nation Red Cross: Text REDCROSS to 90999 to donate 10 USD

Canadian Red Cross: Text ASIA to 30333 to donate 5 USD

Convoy of Hope: Text TSUNAMI to 50555 to donate 10 USD

International Medical Corps: Text MED to 80888 to donate 10 USD

Operating Blessing International: Text BLESS to 50555

Salvation Army: Text JAPAN or QUAKE to 80888 to donate 10 USD

World Vision: Text 4JAPAN to 20222 to donate 10 USD



And remember, at the moment it shouldn't matter if you donate to a religious charity or not, at least not now...

Till next time






Tuesday, March 8, 2011

I'm Finally Getting it, you Know Writing....

Today I decided to watch a movie from Netflix, and I've been meaning to watch Revenge of the Bridesmaid, so that's what I did. Mine you, I wanted to just watch a movie and not think about the writing format, you know, what a script should have: inciting incident, key incident, plot point I, midpoint, plot point II.

Yeah, I didn't want to think about that. All I wanted to do was watch a movie and enjoy it. But something happened. Something exciting!

I enjoyed the movie. Frankly I would see it again, but that's not the point...

What's truly important is that as I watched the movie, I was able to spot all the small scenes, and dialogue, that made the movie flow, that made it transition from one point to another. I knew where the inciting and key incident where. I also figured out what plot point 1&2 dealt with, and of course what scene made the midpoint.

By the end of the movie I was all giddy!

I finally can spot these important things without really thinking about them.

Hard work does pay off! And also reading a bunch of scripts.

Till next time

My Thoughts on Bunny Drop v.1

 Yen Press
So first of all, let's begin with the synopsis:

Going home for his grandfather’s funeral, thirty-year-old bachelor Daikichi is floored to discover that the old man had an illegitimate child with a younger lover! The rest of his family is equally shocked and embarrassed by this surprise development, and not one of them wants anything to do with the silent little girl, Rin. In a fit of angry spontaneity, Daikichi decides to take her in himself! But will living with this overgrown teenager of man help Rin come out of her shell? And hang on, won’t this turn of events spell doom for Daikichi’s love life?!




That and the movie preview is what got me interested in the series. So let's break it down.


Main Characters:


Daikichi
The story revolves around Daikichi who apparently thinks that the opposite sex is his enemy. Who works in a 9-5 job with lots and lots of overtime. Who has been carefree and lacks responsibility (which of course is hinted by his family members). And who, as volume one progresses, begins to slowly become an adult. But truth be told, I just think he's misunderstood.


Rin
Rin is the oddball; the six-year-old that is to tall for her age and too shy to speak. Well that's how the family sees her. But as she begins to live with Daikichi, not only he, but us, were able to see that she is a lot more responsible then Daikichi is. In a way, she balances him. I guess she is the adult and Daikichi is the little kid. A role reversal.


Grandpa
There isn't much at the moment. I know, he's dead, but I feel like there might be more... like if he is surrounded by mystery, so definitely something to look forward to!


Other Characters
I don't want to go on detail about them (for now), but Daikichi's family is definitely in the loop. At the beginning of the novel, you can't help but feel annoyed by them, but by the end, they are, kind of, okay...


Story
The story is amazing and truly touching. The fact that Yumi Unita touches on topics about death, divorce, parenthood, and responsibility in a serious manner while throwing some silliness at the side is amazing! (and I used amazing twice here). 


Comments 
Definitely something worth buying. Its refreshing while touching familiar topics. The art style is very different from other mangas I've read, which would explain why this is a lot taller then most of my mangas. And the fact that we see how a child, who acts as an adult, and an adult who acts like a child begin take their respected roles; makes us ask for more.
So, thank you Yen Press for bringing this to the U.S.


Till next time







Sunday, March 6, 2011

Writing Warm-Ups are Actually Helpful, so I've Heard...

So this week we had to start working on the first 8-10 pages of Act I. Now remember, a script should be 120 pages, that is 120 minutes, but now, most are less than 120, and the few that are over 120 are exceptions i.e Lord of the Rings. Remember this when you write your script...

Hey, that's just how Hollywood rolls.

I will admit, I was a bit hesitant, nervous, and of course, I plainly stared at the screen for the first few days. You know, the usual.

But the one thing that I would constantly do was think: How am I going to start this? Do I want a flashback? Do I want to start with v.o? How do I want to start my story?! [insert pulling hair here.]


A complete headache!

Then I remembered...


A few months back I read Plot and Structure by Scott Bell, and he said that one should always start the day with a 10-minute writing warm-up, you know, to get things going.   Now his warm-up seems generic(to me), so what I did was changed it a bit to fit around my 8-10 pages with something like:

Today I want to start with....

and the following day:

Today I want to describe this scene with_____________ because _________

And the day after with:

Today for this particular scene I want to express __________ and want Emma to be seen as _______


Believe me, this warm-up helped me when an hour or two later, I had to sit down and start typing my script.


It's like I knew what I wanted and all I had to do was fill the pages with words.

So far I think this was a good start. Now, I just hope it gets better.

Oh, and try morning, afternoon, or evening writing warm-ups before writing your story, or continuing where you left off. Who knows what might it help you with... and remember tweak it a bit to fit your needs.

Till next time.

Sunday, February 27, 2011

My Thoughts on...

So this was the last week in my Script Analysis and Criticism class, and you know what? I learned so much from it!

I learned that no matter the length of a script, or who wrote it, if there is no clear Act I: inciting incident, that sets off the key incident, that would then move the story to  plot point I, then the rest of the Acts would definitely not work.

Oh the ways of screenwriting.

This of course I was able to see through reading Rob Zombies script, House of 1000 Corpses. Frankly I had a very hard time reading this...

But now I am able to detect the inciting incidents, key incidents, plot point I, mid point (around page 60 or 60 minutes into the movie), plot point II, and finally the ending...

Boy... that was a mouthful.

I realize that what I now know will definitely be an advantage for me when it comes to not only reading other writer scripts, but when I write my own as well.

This new knowledge will also help me when I start writing my comic script...

Now For...


Tomorrow I begin my class on Film Screenwriting and Story Boarding...

YUP! I shall be using Toon Boom... sure I know that some of my classmates will see it as a waste of time and you know what, that's fine...

After all everyone has a right to have their own opinions on the matter...

But I see this with an open mind and also as a way to expand my skills...

Hmm...

I might just be a hungry writer that likes to learn from anything that is giving to me. 

Till Next Time

Saturday, February 26, 2011

Bunny Drop... Say What?!

So a week ago over at Twitter I saw a link for this trailer... now as a fan of Jdrama and Kdrama I figured I should check it out...

Seriously I loved it!





Of course I did some research, and found out that this is a movie (not a drama) based on a manga by the same name, Bunny Drop. Now the manga is available in the U.S through Yen Press, so I had to get it. There is an anime coming out later this year also...

I haven't been able to read it since I'm busy reading Pandora Hearts volume 2.... by the way... v2 was a shocker for me! I wasn't expecting what I read....

Anyhoo!!!


Here is my copy. Cutest thing ever!



























Now the one thing that caught my eyes was this:







Can you see the difference in length! Holy Moly!

I can't wait to read it, but just so you can have a snip as to what this is about, here, have the synopsis:

Going home for his grandfather's funeral, thirty-year-old bachelor Daikichi is floored to discover that the old man had an illegitimate child with a younger lover! The rest of his family is equally shocked and also embarrassed by this surprise development and not one of them wants anything to do with the silent girl, Rin. In a fit of angry spontaneity, Daikichi decides to take her in himself! But will living with this overgrown teenager of a man help Rin come out of her shell? And hang on, won't this turn of events spell doom for Daikichi's love life?!


An interesting synopsis don't you think? I hope the first volume is as good as it sounds . I will definitely  keep you all posted.

Till next time



Wednesday, February 16, 2011

Planning your Trip to Japan?

Lets face it, one of the many dreams an Otaku has is the one of getting on a plane and flying to Japan, at least for a week, and have the opportunity to explore it and see how much of a gap there is between fiction and real life...

Okay, that's not it (or is it?). The real reason is because after reading so much manga and watching so much anime we got brainwashed, and now have this itch (urge) to fly to Japan and experience it ourselves.

I'm not going to deny it, I too want to spend at least a week out there experience Japan first hand. That be cool, but I'm missing the one thing. The most important thing. The one thing that would make this a reality, money.

But for those of you out there who don't mind spending approximately $3,000 for your Japan trip then listen up because I have some great news for you. This of course is something I wanted to share with fellow Otakus 

A while back I stumbled upon popjapantravel.com, a website that coordinates and has the ideal Japanese tour just for you. And what I mean by ideal is that they have different packages to choose from:

Anime Inside Tour

Sakura Spring Tour (Great for spring break!)

Fangirl Paradise (Any Yaoi girls out there?)

Tokyo Wonderland...

Well you get the idea, and these are just a few!

So How Does it Work?


Okay, first of you would have to decide on the type of tour: Group tours, custom tours, student/club tours. Once that is set, then you choose your package.

The reason I mentioned $3,000 earlier was because for most of the packages this will include the trip, taxes, and personal spending(i.e., meals and personal purchases).

But prices do vary depending on the package you choose. The least expensive trip is around $1,950, but if you decide to get the early bird discount, then it would be $1,850; not much of a difference, but it still something to consider. Tuzki Bunny Emoticon

Now each package includes hotel accommodations, round-trip international fare, transportation to and from activities, professional bilingual tours and customized  guidebooks.

Personally

Yeah, it is a little pricey, but I think that in the long-run it would be a good buy. Not only will you be able to share this experience with others (depending on the tour you choose), but you will probably get to experience things you never even though about.

Now if you do decide on taking one of these trips, let me know! Since after all, I too want to go visit and explore Japan.

Till next time

Sunday, February 13, 2011

A Manga Series by the Name of Death Note v.1


 

 Light Yagami is an ace student with great prospects - and he's bored out of his mind. But all that changes when he finds the Death Note, a notebook dropped by a rogue Shinigami death god. Any human whose name is written in the notebook dies, and now Light has vowed to use the power of the Death Note to rid the world of evil. But when criminals begin dropping dead, the authorities send the legendary detective L to track down the killer. With L hot on his heels, will Light lose sight of his noble goal...or his life?
Light tests the boundaries of the Death Note's powers as L and the police begin to close in. Luckily Light's father is the head of the Japanese National Police Agency and leaves vital information about the case lying around the house. With access to his father's files, Light can keep one step ahead of the authorities. But who is the strange man following him, and how can Light guard against enemies whose names he doesn't know?
A story that involves a shinigami, a smart high school kid that is bored out of his mind, a notebook that can bring death to the names that are written in it, and Sherlock Holmes detective. A pretty interesting synopsis wouldn't you agree?

So lets break it down. 

Character

Light 

First of all he is the protagonist of this manga. Right from page one we get to see who Light is: smart, popular, attractive, do I dare say middle class, but most of all he's bored and believes that the world is corrupt; the last two thing are what drive this series.

Of course him finding the Death Note is what gives him the opportunity to change the world, and gives him the chance to try and create an oasis, HIS oasis. 

Yeah, the way I see it... Light is a Sociopath, and yes, I did some research on it and found out that signs of this particular disorder start showing up around the age of 15.

Gosh... Tsugumi-sensei sure did the research, and this totally shows it.

Ryuk

He is the shinigami that intentionally dropped the Death Note on earth. Just like Light, he was bored and wanted something to do, and as we read volume 1, we come to understand that he sees humans as a form of entertainment. He is also intrigued by Light.


Volume 1 gives us bits and pieces of his personality and right away we realized that he is going to be Light's biggest obstacle.

L is a well-known detective (a Sherlock Holmes) and clever as a mouse. His identity is not known by the reader and by Light during the first volume, so that was disappointing, but its what keeps some of us buying the manga, hoping to see who L really is. 

Story

I like the pace of the story. There is plenty of information giving to us, including what exactly is the Death Note. Although, what did amused me was that the rules on how to use this Death Note was a little to repetitive for me. In fact, I think I can come an use the Death Note if I ever see it on the ground one day. But most importantly this is an attention grabber and makes you want to buy the second volume just to see what happens next. 



Till next time 

  



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