This symbol represents mistakes many aspiring screenwriters make. 

These are such common mistakes, and ones I've seen repeated by such a diverse selection of writers, that I thought to offer whatever wisdom I may have on the subjects.  Of course, some of these mistakes are unique to me, which makes me a very special person or a complete idiot.   

It's advice I've picked up from a variety of sources -- advice offered, war stories of working writers, eavesdropping.  But mostly I picked up these tidbits through the simple act of living the dream.       

I have been told by some people that this site is too negative.  It doesn't give people the warm fuzzies and make them think that their very next script will be the one to sell for a million dollars.  Sorry about that.  You want a happy ending, see a movie.  You want real life, write a screenplay.    

I've no intention of joining the ranks of those with glowing smiles, the legions of huckstering clowns making a living from books, computer programs, seminars, classes, and "personal assistance" for new writers.  No way.  There's a special circle of Hell reserved for those who feed off of the hopes and dreams of others.  No thanks. 


Big Ugly:

In this space I'll state a common situation writers will face.

In colorful blocks I'll explore the problem

As well as the solutions.
I'll offer my advice, my rants, a little sobbing, maybe some therapy if I can squeeze it in. 

1)  You've written your first screenplay and prepare to send it out.  Great!  But first...
2)  You see there's a trend and want to cash in.  Good!  But think about this...

3)  Rewriting.  They say you should rewrite the script.  You disagree.  What do you do?
4)  Your writer's group critique session turns mean.  What do you do?
5)  Joe's BEST advice -- His "revelation" about why he failed... so maybe you won't.

Come on in, check out...